' ' '* I • . 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




DDD17E4fiE4a 



* 



>'' 






])^\ 






•e. 



x^- 






.\0 °^ 






<-.: 






-is- 



^^>v'\.'" 



^.^ 



S^c 






V 



^^ 



s -^.^ 



-^^ 



vSS 






^A V 



,^^^ 



A^ '^/. 









"1 -o- 



..*''^,. 



■%, 



,0*" 






■^c^. 






-::? ^, 



,\ 



.N^ 



c^. 



A-^' K.^' '%. ' kO^ ^^ 



.\^ 



C^. 






,a 


V * 


.^^' 






VI "^ 








V 


^ 


\' ^ 








v-^ 










O 











o 









\ 



V 



^ 



Sh 
















v\ 



-'i^z-. 



c^' 



0^ 



"o 0^- 






^^ ^i>. 



■; S 


v^:^ 


'^ .^^' 




«.^<^. 





f-i 



>>-#' 



^\" _x-^^^^% 












C. 



c 







^. c-> 



0' ^ ^'"z 






_\ 






THE 

FIRST 



CLASS BOOK OF HISTORY, 

DESIGNED EOR 

Pupils Commencing the Study of History; 



With Questions, 

gbaptcb ia l^e ilgt of gitahmus anb ^tljools. 

By M. J. KERNEY, A. M. 

Adthor til Compendium of Ancient and Modern History, Columbiin Arithmetic, &c., &o., &o, 

Twenty-Second Revised Edition* 



V 

Enlarged by the Addition op 

Lessons in Ancient Histoey. 




B A L T I M O K E : 

Published by John Muephy & Co. 

182 Baltimore Street. 

iiold by Booksellers generally throughovt the U. S. 
18 6 8. 



# 



Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1868, by 

JOHN MURPHY, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of Maryland. 






y.^^^ 



PEEFAOE 
To THIS New Enlarged Edition. 

Eighteen years of uninterrupted success have estab- 
lished the superior excellence of Kerney's First Class 
Boole of History. 

Teachers having frequently expressed regret that the 
author had confined himself to Modern Times, instead 
of embracing in his plan the outlines of Ancient History, 
as he has done so successfully in his larger work, the 
«' Compendiuni of Ancient and Modern History," the 
Publishers have sought, in the present edition, to bring 
this valuable little book to a state of completion which 
would leave nothing to desire. They have confided this 
task to a gentleman of practical experience, who has 
added to Mr. Kerney's work a short but complete 
Synopsis of Sacred and Ancient History, together with 
an interesting chapter on the Progress of Civilization. 
The Book might now be aptly styled " The First Class 
Book in Universal History." 

In addition to this entirely new matter, the Modern 
Historj^ has been enlarged by the introduction of several 
chapters, embracing the most important and recent events 
that have transpired in the civilized countries of the 
world, including the late American Civil War. 

No pains have been spared in the careful and thorough 
revision and preparation of this Edition, with the hope 
of rendering it worthy, in every respect, of the high 
commendation and very liberal patronage enjoyed by 
Mr. Kerney's Class Books. j|^ 

Baltimore, May, 1868. 

1* V 



# 



AuTHOii\s Preface, 

At the earnest request of many, who have used the 
qiUthor's Compendium of Ancient and Modern History, 
he has cqnsented to compile the following little volume. 
It is chiefly designed for pupils about to enter upon a 
pourse of historical study. It will be found to contain an 
account of the most important events in the history of 
our own country, so arranged that they can be easily 
retained. It also embraces the history of several of the 
most important countries of Europe. 

In the arrangement of the work, and in the general 
matter of contents, the Author has pursued that course, 
which bis long experience in teaching has pointed out, 
as the best to facilitate the progress of the pupil in 
acquiring a knowledge of history. The history of other 
nations may prove interesting and instructive, but that 
of our own country possesses peculiar attractions. The 
author, therefore, has placed the history of the United 
States first in the order of arrangement, so that it njay 
first claim the attention of the young. 

He has endeavored to adopt his style to the capacity of 
that class of learners, for whom the v;ork is designed; at 
the same time, he has avoided the use of those low 
expressions and common-place words, too frequently met 
with in works of this kind. 

With the hope, that the First Class Book of History 
may be found useful in that department of literature, for 
which it is designed, the author freely submits it to the 
examination of the public. 

M. J. K. 

Baltimore, February, 1850. 



VI 



Contents. 

Page. 

Preface , 6 

Author's Preface 6 

Introduction , , 9 

Division of History 13 

Sacred History .• , 15 

Ancient History — The Egyptians .,, 24 

«« '« The Phoenicians.. 30 

" 'f The Assyrians and Babylonians 32 

" " The Medes and Persians 36 

*< <« The Indians 40 

<' •< Anqient Greece 42 

'< '« The Komans 53 

Discover}' of America , 62_ 

Discoveries made by other Navigators 74 

Discovery and Conquest of Mexico 76 

Discovery and Conquest of Peru 88 

Settlement of Virginia 90 

" New York 98 

'♦ Massachusetts 102 

" New Hampshire, Connecticut and 

Khode Island 105 

" Maryland 108 

♦• Pennsylvania Ill 

" The Carolinas and Georgia 113 

The Indian war 115 

The French war 121 

viii 



viii Contents. 

Page. 

The United States— The RcvQlution 129 

Declaration of Independence 144 

Battle of Brandywine 147 

Surrender of Burgoyne 147 

Destruction of Wyoming 147 

Gates' Defeat 153 

The Treachery of Arnold 158 

The Surrender of Lord Cornwallis 163 

The Formation of the Constitution 161 

War with Great Britain 165 

Causes of the War, &c 165 

Perry's Victory 169 

Battle of the Thames, &c 169 

The War with Mexico 175 

American Civil War 184 

France 189 

England 229 

Ireland 274 

Italy 291 

Middle Ages 299 

Monastic Institutions .r...301 

Crusades : 303 

Progress of Civilization 307 

Spain 313 

Portugal 317 

Poland 319 

liussia 322 

Prussia 327 

Germany 330 

Sweden, Denmark and Norway 332 

Netherlands and Holland 335 



IJN^TRODUCTION. 



1. My young friends, you are about to enter 
on the study of that branch, called History. 
You are about to enter upon a study, winch 
will unfold to you the secrets of the past, and 
lay open before youj a wide field for the cultiva- 
tion and improvement of your minds. 

2. From the study of history, you will learn 
to commune with the ages of the past, and to 
converse with people, who have long since 
passed from the theatre of the world : you will 
learn the manners and customs of kingdoms and 
nations, which have arisen, flourished, and have 
fallen again to ruin and decay. 

3. From the page of history you will learn 
the sad story of those great cities of the past, 
whose mouldering ruins at the present day, only 
attest their former grandeur and power. 

Questions. — 1. What are you about to study? What are you 
about to enter upon ? 2. From the study of history what will 
you learn ? 3. From the pages of history what will you learn ? 

9 



10 Introduction. 

4. You will find, moreover, the study of his- 
tory a pleasing and delightful task. Every step 
of your progress will open to you something new 
— something entertaining. You will find your 
little history an interesting companion, with 
whom you can retire and converse on the events 
of by-gone days. 

5. The advantages to be derived from the 
study of history are numerous, and should al- 
wa3^s be kept in view. In the first place, it will 
enable you to converse freely with persons 
already acquainted with the events of the past, 
and at the same time^ it will render you capable 
of entertaining others, less informed than your- 
selves. 

6. In the second place, from the study of his- 
tor}^, you will learn experience, without under- 
going the sad reality. When you read of those 
who have been wicked, and learn the punish- 
ment with which they were afflicted for their 
crimes, learn also to avoid their example, lest 
perhaps you may share in their misfortunes. 

Questions. — 4. What will you find ? 5. What is the first advan- 
tage to be derived from history? 6. In the second place, vv^hat is 
said? When you read of those who have been wicked, what 
shou'td yon learn ? 



Introduction, 11 

7. Oil the other hand, let the example of the 
great and good of whom you read, influence your 
actions ; let their virtues shine before you as a 
burning light, by which you may direct j'Our 
course in the stormy sea of life, so that the even- 
ing of your days may be as calm and tranquil, 
as your youth is happy and joyous. 

8. In perusing the page of history your hearts 
will often become sad, and your eyes will grow 
dim with tiie tear of sorrow, while contemplating 
the misguided zeal of particular individuals in mat- 
ters of religion. But, my young friends, when 
you read of those acts of intolerance, which 
have been exercised by one religious denomina- 
tion, against the professors of another, remember 
that this is to be attributed to the perversily of 
men, as persecution is not the spirit of Christi- 
anity. The spirit of true religion is a spirit of 
charitV^iich inculcates love for all men with- 
out distinction. It is to the happy influence of 
this cheering spirit we owe all the blessings we 
enjoy. 

Questions.— 7. On the other hand, what is said ? 8. In perusing 
the page of history, what will your hearts become? But when we 
road, &c., what should wo remember ? 



12 Introduction. 

9. If then, my young readers, yon be of dif- 
ferent opinions in matters of religion, entertain 
towards each other the kindest feehngs ; and 
never make use of any expression, that might, 
in the slightest degree, wound the rehgious sensi- 
bilities of your companions. Remember, that 
we are all journeying forward to another and 
better world, where we hope to meet and dwell 
tofjether in the bosom of our God. 

Questions. — 9. If then, &c., what should you entertain? What 
should we remember ? 



CHAPTER I. 
Division of History. 

1. History is a written account of the events 
that have taken place in the world; of facts corr- 
cerning nations, tlieir origin, and their progress 
or deca3^ It is divided into two periods : 

2. First: — Ancient History which comprises 
the events (hat have occurred from the creation 
of the world to the early days of Ohrisiianily ; 

3. Seco?id : — Modern History which extends 
from that time lo our days. 

4. That period of Modern History, extending 
from the middle of ihe Fifth Century to the mid- 
dle of the Fifteenth, is called the Middle Ages. 

5. According to (he nature of the subjects 
treated, History is also designated as Sacred, 
Profane, Ecclesiastical, or Civil. 

6. Sacred History is the narrative of the events 
contained in the Scriptures or Bible, the only 
record we have of (he creation and of the three 
thousand years that followed. It is confined 
especially to the history of the people of Israel, 
and only mentions the other nations of antiquity 
incidentally. 



QuiJSTiONS.— 1. What is History? How is. it divided? 
2. What is Ancient History ? .^. Modern History ? 4. The 
History of the Middle Ages? 5. By what other names are 
the divisions of History designated? 6. What is Sacred 
History ? 

2 • 13 



14 Division of History. 

7. Profane History, (he earlier part of which is 
clouded in obscurity, is the history of (he ancient 
Healhen peoples. 

8. Ecclesiastical History commences with the 
birth of our Saviour ; it is the history of His 
Church. 

9. The Civil or Political History of a nation 
is what concerns its laws and government, and 
the changes therein caused by revolutions and 
wars. 

10. The History of the Middle Ages shows to 
us the barbarous customs of the Heathens giving 
way to the civilizing influence of Chrisiianity ; 
the idols and ftxlse gods crumbling before the vic- 
torious cross ; and the word of (he true God pene- 
trating alike into the palaces of the kings and the 
hovels of the poor. 

11. The remarkable events of that period are 
the advent of Mahometanism, the establishment 
of Monastic Inslitutions, the Feudal system, the 
Crusades, and Chivalry. 

12. Modern History is accurately known, thanks 
to the invention of the art of priming. Among 
the important events of this period, are the disco- 
very of America, which opened a new world to 
enterprise ; the Protestant Reformation, which 

Questions. — 7. Profane History? 8. Ecclesiastical His- 
tory? 9. Civil History? 10. Tell us about the Middle Ages. 
11. What are the remarkable events of that period ? 12. Of 
Modern History? 



Sacred History. 15 

divided (he Ciirisfian Church ; and the American 
and French Revohitions — the former giving birth 
to a new people and proving a blessing to man- 
kind ; the latter convulsing the old world, steep- 
ing the French people in blood, and bequeathing 
to Europe a spirit of disorder and discontent. 

13. The progress made in the arts and sciences 
in our own days, is truly wonderful ; and sleam 
navigation, the magnetic and the sub-marine tele- 
graph, are evidences of the genius of man, while 
they proclaim the greatness of God, who endowed 
man with a thinking mind — a soul. 



CHAPTER n. 

Sacred History. 



1. The world, according to the chronological 
system generally adopted, was created about four 
thousand years before the Christian era. 

2. God alone is a creator. Whatever man 
may invent or make, he must use an already 
existing substance ; but the Almighty created 
the universe from nothing. He v^illed, and the 
world was. 

3. The universe in all its admirable details, 

QuKSTioNs. — 13. Tell us about more recent wonders. 
1. When was the world created ? 2. Explain the meaning 
of the word creator. 3. In how many days was the world 
created ? 



16 Sacred History. 

from (he tiniest blade of grass lo tiie most bril- 
liant planet, was crealed in six days. On ihe 
sixih day, God made man from the dust of ibe ^ 
earth, and breathed inlo him an imperisha- 
ble soul. Thus, man was made superior to 
all the animals of the earth, over which he 
was given power. The first man was named 
Ada'/?i. which means terrestrial, or '^from the 
earth." 

4. Having contemplated His work and judged 
it perfect, God rested on the seventh day, which 
He sanctified and reserved as the day upon which 
all creatures should worship Him. 

5. God, in His admirable goodness, having 
made man superior to all the animal creation, 
deemed that a companion congenial in {)erfection 
should be given to him ; and having cast Adam 
into a deep sleep. He took from his side a rib, 
out of which He formed the first woman, to 
whom He gave the name £]ve^ w^hich tneans 
Life, because she was destined to give life to 
the human race. 

6. The Almighty having thus provided for 
man's happiness, placed him with his companion 
in the Garden of Eden, situated in Asia Minor 
and through which flowed the rivers Tigris and 
Euphrates. 

Questions. — 3. Who was the first man ? 4. What was done 
on the seventh day ? 5. Who did Adam get for companion ? 
6. Where did God place Adam and Eve ? ■ 



Sacred History. 17 

7. Eden was a terrestrial paradise in which 
the most delicious frniis abounded and nature 
was clothed in perpetual verdure. Peace and 
harmony reigned in that delightful spot, — the 
Lion played with the j^amb. Such was the 
home given to our first parents by a bountiful 
God. He made one reservation only : in the 
middle of the garden was a tree called the Tree 
of Life, and the fruit of this tree, God com- 
manded Adam and Eve not to taste. 

8. Before the creation of the earth, God had 
created the Angels, spiritual beings who do not 
live in the flesh like man. Some of the Angels, 
led by Satan, the proudest of them all, re- 
belled against the Lord, who in punishment of 
their critne, shut from them the light of Heaven 
and sentenced them to live in eternal darkness.. 
When Adam and Eve were put in the Garden^ 
of Eden, Satan, jealous of the happiness of these 
newly created beings, resolved to tempt them to- 
do evil. 

9. The Lord permitted this, because having'; 
given man an intelligent mind capable of distin- 
guishing good from evil, He left him free to do* 
or avoid wrong. 

10. Satan persuaded Eve to taste of the foi- 



QuESTioNS. — 7. Describe the Garden of Eden. Wliat was 
God's command to Adam and Eve? 8. What about the- 
Angels? What did Satan resolve? 9. Why did God per- 
mit this? 10. How was Eve tempted and what resulted ? 

2# 



18 Sacred History. 

bidden fruit, and slie induced her husband to 
partake of it. For this act of ingratitude and dis- 
obedience, God banished them from Eden, and 
ordained that they should be subject to disease 
and death. 

11. Adam and Eve now reaped the bitter fruits 
of disobedience. They feli I he pangs of hunger, 
and had to labor hard to obtain the food that the 
earth had hitherto yielded them spontaneously ; 
the animals fled their approacli or rebelled against 
them ; they suffered from cold and heat. They 
suffered bodily pain and were soon to suffer sor- 
row : they had children, and Cain, their first- 
born, killed his brother Abel in a fit of jealousy. 

12. The descendants of Adam became so 
wicked that they provoked the anger of (he Al- 
mighty. Ten generations only had succeeded 
our first parents, and mankind was already deem- 
ed unfit to live. There was, however, one just 
man, the patriarch Noe, who found favor in the 
eyes of the Lord, and was excepted with his 
family, from the general destruction. 

13. God commanded Noe to build a large ves- 
sel called an ark, and to give shelter in it, to one 
pair of each kind of beasts, birds and reptiiles. 
Noe obeyed this command, and following the 

Questions.— 11. Wliatwas thecondition of ourfirst parents 
after their fall ? 12. How did the descendants of Adam be- 
liave? What just man found favor with the Lord? 13. What 
did Noe^ by command of God? 



Sacred History. 19 

Lord's instructions, shut himself up in the ark 
with his family. 

14. God then caused heavy rains to fall, and 
the rivers and seas to overflow their boundaries. 
The earth was covered with water, and all crea- 
tures perished, except those in the ark. This 
event is termed the deluge, and occurred some 
2000 years B. C. 

15. The flood having subsided, after forty 
days, the ark grounded on a mountain called 
Ararat, and Noe and his family went forth fol- 
lowed by the animals. 

16. The three sons of Noe, namely, .Taphet, 
Sem, and Cham, had numerous descendants 
who all lived together as one people, speaking 
the same language. Frightened by the accounts 
of the deluge transmitted to them by tradition, 
they resolved to guard against a recurrence of 
that fearful event, and they proposed to build a 
tower which reaching the skies, would afford 
them a safe retreat in case of another flood. 

17. They commenced the execution of this 
project, and the tower had already attained a 
great height, when God, to punish their pre- 
sumption, struck them with confusion. The 
workmen commenced speaking different lan- 
guages, and could no longer understand each 

Questions.— 14, What followed ? 15. What became of 
thot'S in the ark ? 16. What did the descendants of Noe? 
17. What was the result of this undertaking ? 



20 Sacred History. 

other. The people separated and became dis- 
persed. Seiri's descendants remained in Asia ; 
Japhet's settled Europe, and Cham's spread 
over a portion of Asia and into Africa. The un- 
finished tower received the nameof Babel, which 
means confusion. 

IS. Thus were the different nations originated. 
Those descendants of Noe, who forgot the 
teachings of their fathers and gradually became 
idolaters and pagans, disappear in the night of 
time, and when we find them again under the 
name of Egyptians, Phoenicians, and others, 
their traditional history is lost. The posterity of 
Sem, who remained faithful to ilie true God, 
preserved theirs, and it is iliis traditional history, 
beginning with the creation, that has been trans- 
mitted to us by the chosen of God, the sacred 
writer Moses. It is to be found in tlie Bible, the 
only authentic record of those early times. 

19. Abraham, the ninth lineal descendant of 
Sem, settled into the land of Chanaan, by the 
inspiration of God, and became the faiher of the 
[)eople of Israel, The Israelites took their name 
from Jacob, also named Israel, the son of Isaac 
and grandson of Abraham. 

20. Jacob had twelve sons who became the 

Questions. — 17. What name was given to the unfinisherl 
tower? ]8, What became of the descendants of Koe ? 
19. Who settled in Chanaan? From whom did the Israel- 
ites take their name? 20. Tell us about the sons of Jacob. 



Sacred History. 21 

palriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. 7^he 
Israelites left tiie land of Chanaan and moved 
into Egypt where they were at. first prosper- 
ous, but the Egyptians jealous of their growing 
power, reduced them to slavery. 

21. They h'ved in this cruel condition, when 
Moses, with the help of God, led them from 
Egypt. But their long sojourn among the Hea- 
thens had corrupted the Israelites, and God would 
not permit them to enter the promised land of 
Chanaan, whither they were directing their steps, 
until they had atoned for their grievous sins. 
Finally, after forty years of wanderings and pri- 
vations, Josue led them into Chanaan. Moses 
died in sight of the promised land. 

22. The Israelites, after their arrival in Cha- 
naan, were at first governed by judges under the 
wise laws framed by Moses ; and had they al- 
ways observed those laws, they would have been 
happy, but they transgressed them, and God per- 
mitted that the}^ should be persecuted and even 
subjugated by their enemies, the Madianites, the 
Ammonites, and the Philistines. 

23. But the Lord, who wanted to punish and 
not to destroy his chosen people, gave them from 
time to time, as they repented of tlieir errors, 
some great man for judge, who delivered them 

Questions. — 21. Who took the Israelites out of Egypt? 
22. Did the Israelites respect the law? 23. What great men 
did the Lord send them ? 



22 Sacred History. 

from llie oppression of their enemies. The most 
illustrious of these Heaven-inspired chiefs were 
Gecleon, Jephte, Samson and Samuel. 

24. At last, the people of Israel became tired 
of being governed by judges, and (hey clamored 
for a king. The difference between a judge and 
a king in Israel, was that the judge only enforced 
the execution of the laws bequeathed by Moses, 
whereas the king could make new laws. 

25. The venerable Samuel, their last judge, 
was inspired by the Lord to select the king which 
He had consented to give His people. Samuel 
anointed Saul, a young man of the tribe of Ben- 
jamin. The king gained great victories over his 
enemies, but success made him proud and un- 
grateful, and the spirit of God withdrew from 
him. 

213. Saul was succeeded by David, whose piety 
equalled his courage. He vanquished .the ene- 
mies of Israel, enlarged his kingdom, and made 
his people happy and prosperous. After his 
death, the kingdom passed into the hands of his 
son, the wise Solomon. This prince signalized 
his reign b}^ building the Temple of Jerusalem, 
one of the most magnificent structuies ever dedi- 
cated to the glory of God. 

QUESTION'S. — 24. Were the Israelites always governed by 
Judges? 25. How did they get a king? 26. Who succeeded 
Saul? Who was David's successor? What did he do? 



Sacred History. 23 

27. After Solomon's death, his kingdom was 
divided by the revolt of ten tribes against the 
authority of Roboam, his son and successor. 
These ten tribes selected Jeroboam for their kinar 
and retained the name of Israelites. The other 
two, which remained faithful to the royal family 
of David, formed the kingdom of Juda. 

28. The Israelites under Jeroboam became 
idolaters, and gradually lost all idea of the true 
God. They were subsequently, (254 years after 
their separation,) subjugated by the Assyrians, 
and jfinally dispersed. The descendants of Juda, 
properly styled the Jews, remained faithful to 
their God and their king. 

29. The chosen family of David, which was 
destined to give the world a Saviour, governed 
the Jews during 387 years. After that time, 
Jerusalem was taken by Nabuchodonosor, king of 
Babylon, and the city, as well as the great Tem- 
ple built by Solomon, razed to the ground. 

30. Then conmienced the captivity of the 
Jews in Babylon. It lasted seventy years ; and 
it was only when Cyrus the Great, king of Persia, 
conquered the Babylonian empire, that this un- 
fortunate people were permitted to return to their 

Questions — 27. What happened after Solomon's death? 
28. What became of the followers of Jeroboam ? Of the 
descendants of Juda? 29. How long did the family of 
David govern the Jews ? What happened after that time? 
30. Tell us about the captivity of the Jews. 



24 The Egyptians. 

country, and to rebuild the city and Temple of 
Jerusalem. 

31. But the Jews, so often blessed with the 
manifest protection of God, as often incurred His 
displeasure by their ingratitude, and they were 
successively subjugated by the Persians, the 
Egyptians, the Syrians, the Macedonians, and 
finally by the Romans. 

32. Judea was still a Roman province when 
God, fulfilling His promise, sent a Saviour to 
mankind. But even this proof of His divine 
love did not open the eyes of the Jews. Our 
Lord Jesus Christ was crucified ; and to fulfil 
His prophecy, seventy years after His death, 
Jerusalem was completely destroyed by the Ro- 
mans, and the Jews were dispersed all over the 
world, remaining to this day, a people without a 
country. 

CHAPTER HI. 

Ancient History — The Egyptians. 

1. Altliough the history of the Assyrians can 
be traced back to an earlier period than that of 
the other heathen nations, we give precedence 

QuKSTioNS. — 31. What was the subsequeutfateof the Jews? 
32. What great event happened after Judea had becojue a 
Roman province? IIow was the prophecy of our Lord Jesus 
Christ fulfilled? 1. Which is the first among Heathen na- 
tions? 



The Egyptians. 25 

to the Egyptians because they were the most 
advanced in civilization, and in the knowledge 
of various sciences which they introduced into 
other countries by means of their colonies. 

2. Egypt is situated on ihe north-western 
coast of Africa, and is separated from Asia by 
the isthmus of Suez. Its soil is extremely 
productive ; particularly the low lands through 
which the river Nile has its course. This river 
has periodical overflows which last three months, 
and the alluvial deposit, with which the soil re- 
mains covered after the water has retired, is a 
great fertilizer. 

3. Little is known of the early history of 
Egypt. That country was settled by Menes, 
who is supposed to have been a son of Cnam. 
To one of his successors, Alholes, or Hermes, 
as he is called by the ancient Greek writers, are 
due the first discoveries in Astronomy, in medical 
science^ and in hieroglyphic writing. 

4. The descendants of Menes were conquered 
by a people from Arabia, whose rulers, known 
in history as the Shepherd Kings, seem to 
have governed peacefully, and added much to 
the prosperity of Egypt. 

5. Another race of Kings, the Pharaos suc- 
ceeded the line of Shepherd Kings, after these 

Questions.— 2. Tell us about Egypt. 3. What about the 
early history of the Egyptians? 4. Who conquered the 
Egyptians ? 6. What kings succeeded the Shepherd Kings ? 



26 The Egyptians. 

had reigned two hundred years. One of the 
PharaoS; Sesoslris, who ascended the throne in 
the year 1590, B. C, was one of the most re- 
markable kings of Egypt, both as a* conqueror 
and a legislator. He made several warlike expe- 
ditions in the course of which he subdued the 
Lybians and the Thracians. He divided the 
people into classes, according to their calling and 
wealth, protected and encouraged the arts, and, 
it is beheved, constructed the monuments that 
embellish interior Egypt. 

6. It was during the reign of the Pharaos that 
the Israelites were iield in caplivit}^, and the de- 
gree of civilization, and advancement in science 
manifested by the Egyptians in those early times 
tend to show the antiquity of that people. 

7. Towards 670, B. C, the historical data 
concerning the Egyptians, become more precise. 
Psammeticus who then reigned in Egypt, opened 
its ports to the Greeks for the purposes^f com- 
merce. His son and successor, Neehos, under- 
took to connect the Nile with the Red Sea by 
means of a canal. He failed in this enterprize, 
but signalized his reign by sending Phoenician 
navigators on a voyage of exploration, which 
lasted three years. They started from the Red 

Questions. — 5. Tell us about Sesostris. 6. What occurred 
during the reign of the Pharaos? 7. When does the his- 
tory of Egypt become more precise? What about Psam- 
meticus? About his successor? 



The Egyptians. 27 

Sea, went around the continent of Africa, and 
arrived at the mouth of the Nile. 

8. The son of Neehos was dethroned by 
Amasis, who extended considerably the com- 
mercial intercourse between Egypt and Greece. 
It was then Solon and Pythagoras visited Egypt 
to study her civilization. They returned to their 
country, the former to publish his laws, and the 
latter to spread his doclrine. m 

9. Towards the year 625 B. C, Cambyses, 
King of Persia, conquered Egypt and made it 
a Persian province. Cambyses rendered him- 
self odious to the Egyptians by killing, with his 
own hands, the ox Apis, which they venerated 
as one of their gods. 

10. Two hundred years later, Egypt again 
changed masters, and became part of the do- 
minions of the famojLis Macedonian conqueror, 
Alexander the Great. Ptolemy, a Macedonian 
general, was appointed governor. After Alex- 
ander's death, he took the title of king, and 
founded the dynasty of the Ptolemies, which 
occupied the throne until the death of the re- 
nowned Queen Cleopatra, the last lineal descend- 
ant of Ptolemy, 

QtJESTiONS.— 8. Who dethroned the son of Araasis ? Who 
visited Egypt at that time ? 9. Who conquered Egypt? 
What did Cambyses do ? 10. What happened two hundred 
years later ? How was a new dynasty founded? 



28 The Egyptians. 

11. After the battle of Actium, Egypt became 
a Roman province. The country that had been 
the cradle of arts and science, and which had 
stood at the head of civih'zation, fell into insig- 
nificance, and bore the yoke, successively, of the 
Arabs, the Turks and the Mamelucks. It was, 
and is still, subjected to the Ottoman Empire. 

12. The Egyptians were not a warlike people, 
bill principally devoted themselves to the peace- 
ful pursuits of agriculture and commerce, and 
to the study of the sciences. They were idola- 
ters, and worshipped the ox, the dog, the cat 
and the crocodile. They even counted a num- 
ber of lesser divinities in the vegetable kingdom. 

13. They had, however, man}'^ wise laws and 
interesting customs. Their kings, after death, 
were publicly tried — the people having the right 
to accuse their memory of the faults committed 
during their life-time — and, if found guilty, they 
were denied honorable burial. The soldier who 
showed cow^ardice was proclaimed infamous ; and 
the man who saw a murder committed, and did 
not attempt to prevent it, was put to death. 

14. The three principal cities of Egypt, Heli- 
opolis, Memphis and Thebes, each elected a 

Questions. — ]1. Whatoccurred after the battle of Actium ? 
32. Describe tbe character of the Egyptians; their religion. 
ll^i. Tell us about tbe laws and customs of Egypt. 14. What 
capital cities were there in Egypt? 



The Egyptians. 29 

number of judges, in ])ioportion to their respec- 
tive population. These judges thirty in num- 
ber, composed the tribunal or court of justice. 
To avoid the seductions of eloquence, contend- 
ing parties had to submit their ca^se in writing. 
When a decision was rendered, the presiding 
judge touched the party gaining the suit with 
a wand or *' hand of justice," to which was 
attached a small statue of Truth ; as much as 
to imply that truth alone had dictated the judg- 
ment. 

15. The Egyptians w^ove rich cloths, and 
manufactured elaborately carved vases, long 
before these articles were known in other coun- 
tries. They have left stupendous monuments 
of their architectural skill. The famous pyra- 
mids ; the obelisks cut of one piece, and one 
hundred and ninety feet high, astound the 
beholder by their peculiar construction. One 
of these obelisks was carried to Rome during 
the pontificate of Pope Pius the Fifth ; another 
was shipped, with great trouble and expense, and 
sent to Paris during the reign of iiOuis Phillip. 

16. .That the Egyptians had a positive know- 
ledge of the science of astronomy, can be inferred 



Questions. — 14. How did the judges render justice? 
16. Tell us about the industry of Egypt. About the pyra- 
mids and obelisks. 16. What knowledge did the Egyptians 
have of astronomy ? 

3# 



30 The Phceniciaxs. 

from (he fact that they divided the lunar year of 
three hundred and fifty-four days, into twelve 
months, and subsequently perfected this division 
of time b}^ substituting to the lunar calculation, 
the solar year of three hundred and sixty-five 
days, six hours. They invented the art of 
embalming dead bodies, and the mummies pre- 
pared by them two thousand years ago_, are still 
in a fine state of preservation. 



CHAPTER IV. 
The Phgenicians. 



1. The Phoenicians were hardy navigators 
who lived in Asia, on the Mediterranean coast. 
Without any other compass than the polar star, 
ihey undertook distant voyages for the purposes 
of trade. They founded colonies in the islands 
of Cyprus and Rhodes; in Greece, Sicily and 
Sardinia. Their barks even braved the perils 
of the ocean, and they visited several European 
ports. They established their principal mart at 
Cadiz, in Spain ; and, it is believed, even left a 
colony in Ireland. 

2. The Phoenicians were instrumental in 
propagating the discoveries in the sciences and 

Questions. — 1. Who were the Phoenicians? 2. What is 
known of their history ? 



The Pficenicians. 31 

arts, made by the nations with which they traf- 
ficked ; and yet, very little is known of their 
own history. They founded several flourishing- 
towns, three of which w^ere successively desig- 
nated as their capital. The first was Sidon, 
whose commercial importance diminished only 
when the discover}?^ of the purple dye became 
a source of wealth and splendor to her rival 
city. Tyre. 

3. This discovery was accidental, A hungry 
dog seeing a small shell-fish on the sea-beach, 
proceeded to eat it. As he crushed the shell be- 
tween his teeth, his jaws were dyed of a bright 
and admirable color. Some Tyrians w^ho had 
witnessed this incident, were so struck with the 
beauty of this new color, that they collected a 
quantity of these shells, and succeeded in ex- 
tracting from them the precious liquid. It was 
successfully applied to dyeing stuffs ; and purple, 
on account of its beauty and rarity, became the 
color worn by kitigs. 

4. Tyre preserved all the advantages of a 
capital city and great commercial mart until 890 
B. C, when Carthage, in Africa, became the 
first Phoenician city. 

5. Carthage, from a mere settlement founded 
by trading Phoenicians on the coast of Africa, 

Questions — 2. What cities did they found ? 3. How was 
the purple dye discovered? 4. What city surpassed Tyre? 
5. Tell us about Carthage. 



32 The Assyrians and Babylonians. 

became so powerful as fo rival Rome and to 
arouse her jealousy and hatred. With the de- 
struction of Carlhage by the famous Roman 
general, Scipio, surnamed the African, ended the 
power of the Phoenicians. 

6. To this sea-faring people, we owe one of 
the greatest inventions of ancient tiines — the let- 
ters of the alphabet. Previously to this inven- 
tion, people made use of hieroglyphics, that is 
pictures of the thing intended to be described ; a 
slow and imperfect mode of conveying thought. 
The alphabet is ascribed, perhaps justly, to the 
Egyptians, but the Phoenician Cadmus first in- 
troduced it into Greece, whence it has been trans- 
mitted to us after some modifications. 



CHAPTER V. 

The Assyrians and Babylonians. 

1. The Assyrians and Babylonians inhabited 
Mesopotamia ; a fertile country situated between 
the rivers Tigris and Euphrates, and favored by 
nature with a great variety of productions. 

2. These two empires, the first known in Asia, 
became united under Ninus, king of Assyria. 

Questions. — 6. For what invention are we indebted to the 
Phoenicians ? 1. What people lived in Mesopotamia ? 
2. How were the two empires united ? 



The Assyrians and Babylonians. 33 

Ninive became the capital of the united king- 
dom, but Babylon was so enlarged and embel- 
lished by Semiramis, the wife of Ninus, that it 
was considered the most magnificent city not 
only of the empire, but of the world. 

3. Semiramis reigned alone after her hus- 
band's death, and increased her dominions by 
several couquests. The failure of her last expe- 
dition against India, in wiiich she lost one hun- 
dred thousand men, shortened her life, and she 
died soon after her return to Babylon. She had 
reigned forty- two years, and was one of the great- 
est sovereigns of ancient times. 

4. Her son, Ninias, who succeeded her in the 
government of the empire, was as contemptible 
as his mother had been great. He led a life of 
pleasures and idleness; and, unworthy of the 
love of his subjects, forced their submission by 
means of a standing army. Little is known of 
his deeds or those of his successors, until we 
come to Sardanapalus, whose disastrous end 
made him famous in history. 

5. This effeminate prince led a most shame- 
ful life. The people conspired to overthrow the 
tyrant ; and Arbaces, governor of Media, and 
Belesis, governor of Babylon, became their 

Questions.— 2. Tell us about the two great cities. 3. Tell 
us about Semiramis. 4. Who was her successor? Tell us of 
this prince's reign and of his successors. 5. What happened 
during the reign of Sardanapalus? 



34 The Assyrians and Babylonians. 

leaders. At the first news of this revolt, Sar- 
danapalus hid himself in his palace, but his 
officers compelled him to march against the 
rebels. His army was vanquished, and pur- 
sued to the very gates of Ninive, where the 
fugitive king sought refuge. 

6. The city was besieged ; and Sardanapalus 
finding it impossible to resist, caused a funeral 
pyre to be built in the palace comt ; and after 
placing himself on it, with his wives, his eunuchs 
and his treasures, had it fired, and perished in 
the flames. 

7. After the death of Sardanapalus, 747 B. O. 
the empire was divided into three distinct king- 
doms, namely, Media, Babylon and Assyria. 
This division lasted two hundred and ten years, 
after which Cyrus became the ruler of the whole 
Eastern Empire. It was during this period (hat 
the Israelites w^ere held captive in Babylon by 
Nabuchodonosor II. Their captivity lasted 
seventy years. 

8. Nitocris, one of the Queens of Babylon, 
gave her successors a good lesson on avarice and 
the thirst for wealth. She caused her tomb to 
be built over the principal gate of the city, and 
a report to be spread that a great treasure would 

Questions.— 6. What was his fate? 7. What followed? 
How long did this division last? What occurred during 
thisperiod? 8. Tell us the anecdote about the queen's tomb. 



The Assyrians and Babylonians. 35 

be buried with her. On (he tomb was an in- 
scription warning- her successors not to disturb 
her ashes. Darius, one of her successors, instead 
of respecting her last wishes, brot^e open the 
tomb ; but the only thing he found near the 
body was a tablet upon which these words were 
engraved : *' If thou wert not thirsting for vain 
lucre, and the prey of the basest avarice, thou 
wouldst not have desecrated the ahode of the 
dead." 

9. The last King of Babylon was Baltassar, 
under whose reign lived the prophet Daniel, 
who had enjoyed such consideration at the court 
of the King Nabuchodonosor II. Baltassar 
was an impious and dissolute king. He was 
killed at the taking of Babylon by Cyrus the 
Great, King of Persia, by which event Babylon 
became a Persian province. 

10. The Babylonians cultivated the sciences, 
and one of their tribes, the Chaldeans, gave 
much attention to the siudy of astronomy. 
They were, it is said, the inventors of the sun- 
dial. They established the worship of the stars, 
and invented the system of astrolog)'^, or divina- 
tion by means of the planets. 

Questions. — 9. Who was the last king of Babylon? How 
was he killed and what followed ? 10. Describe the charac- 
ter of the Babylonians. 



36 The Medes and Persians. 

CHAPTER VI. 

The Medes and Persians. 

1. The Medes, who hke the Persians, lived 
beyond the river Tigris, threw off tlie yoke of 
the Assyrians during the reign of Sardanapalus, 
and elected Dejoces for their king. 

2. Dejoces was a wise and peaceful prince, 
who, during thirty years that he reigned, labored 
to soften the natural fierceness of his people, and 
to inspire theni with the love of peace. His 
successor, Phaortes, was more warlike and am- 
bitious. He conquered the Persians, and having 
joined their forces to his own, overran Asia. He 
even dared to attack the Assyrians ; and was 
defeated by Nabuchodonosor. 

3. Phaortes having been killed, his son, Cyax- 
ares, continued the war, and marched against 
Ninive, but was also vanquished. Assuerus, 
also named Astiages, the eldest son of Cyaxares, 
ascended to the throne after his father's death. 
This prince reigned thirty-five years, and gov- 
erned the kingdom with much wisdom. His 
daughter Mandane, married the Persian prince 
Cambyses, the father of Cyrus, who thus be- 

QuESTiONS. — 1. How did the Medes form a kingdom ? 
2. Tell us about Dejoces and his successor. 3. What fol- 
lowed ? 



The Medes and Persians. 37 

came heir to the two empires of Media and 

Persia. 

4. Cyrus gave early signs of his future great- 
ness, when, quite young, he commanded iiis 
father's army. He gained two glorious victories 
over ihe Babylonians and the troops of Croesus, 
king of Lydia. 

o. The name of this Lydian king, who was 
immensely wealthy, has become proverbial, and, 
*« as rich as Croesus" is a familiar expression 
everywhere. A touching incident is related, 
concerning his only son, who was dumb. At 
the storming of Sardis, a soldier was about to 
deal a fa(al blow to the king ; the young prince's 
emotion upon seeing his father's danger was so 
great that it burst the bonds that held his longue 
captive, and he exclaimed aloud : " Soldier ! do 
not kill Croesus ! " 

6. Cyrus followed up his victories. From 
Lydia, he marched upon Babylon, which he 
took after a long siege. He destroyed this su- 
perb city and converted it into a park for wild 
beasts. 

7. The first year of the reign of Cyrus the 
Great was made memorable by his generous 
treatment of the Israelites who had been held 

Questions.— 4. Tell us about Cyrus the Great. 5. Eclate 
the anecdote about Croesus. 6. What did Cyrus after his 
victory over Crcesus ? 7. What generous act of Cyrus sig- 
nalized the first year of his reign? 

4 



38 The Medes and Persians. 

captive in Babylon for seventy years. He set 
them free ; permitted them to rebuild the temple 
of Jerusalem, and restored to them all Judea. 

8. Cambyses the Younger, succeeded to his 
father Cyrus, whom he was far from resembling, 
being vindictive and cruel, and possessing none 
of the noble qualities which had earned for his 
predecessor the surname of Great. The con- 
quest of Egypt was the only remarkable event 
of his reign. It is related that marching to 
attack the Egyptians, he placed in front of his 
army a large number of the sacred animals 
worshipped by that people. The Egyptians 
dared not fight against their gods, and Cam- 
byses gained an easy victory, making a dread- 
ful butchery of the enemy 

9. Cambyses was succeeded to the throne by 
an impostor named Smerdis, who possed him- 
self off for a deceased brother of the late king. 
The imposition was subsequently discovered, and 
the false Smerdis was killed by the enraged 
people. 

10. Darius Hystaspes, who succeeded Smer- 
dis, invaded Greece, and was defeated at the 
celebrated battle of Marathon. Here commenced 
the enmity between the two countries which was 

Questions. — 8. "Who succeeded Cyrus? What did Cam- 
byses in Egypt? 9. Who succeeded Cambyses ? 10. What 
was the fate of the impostor's successor ? 



The Medes and Persians. 39 

to end in the final destruction of the Persian 
Empire. 

11. Xerxes, the son and successor of Darius, 
invaded Greece a secon'd time, and was badly 
beaten. His successor Artaxerxes I, reigned 
peacefully, but the war commenced afresh after 
his death. 

12. During the reign of Artaxerxes II, the 
Greeks who had invaded Persia, made the 
famous retreat known in history as The Re- 
treat OP THE Ten Thousand. 

13. The Persian empire was finally conquered 
by Alexander the Great j who defeated its last 
king, Darius Codomanus, and added Persia to 
his already vast possessions. 

14. The Persians worshipped one God, and 
looked upon fire and the sun, as the symbols of 
his divinity and power. They built no temples, 
saying that to enclose the Deity between walls 
would be an insult. Their priests, or Magi, 
were wise and learned men, whose life was very 
austere. 

15. The Persian laws were severe. They 
punished vice, inspired hatred for falsehood and 
idleness, and commended the love of justice. 

Questions. — 11. Tell us about Xerxes and his successor. 

12. What remarkable event occurred during the next reign ? 

13. What was the final end of the Persian empire? 14. Tell 
us about the religion of the Persians. 15. About their laws. 



40 The Indians. 

Agriculture was honored ; and twice a year, the 
sovereign ate his meals with the field laborers. 
The provincial governors of Persia, clothed with 
immense power, were called satraps. 



CHAPTER VII. 
The Indians. 



1. Very little is known about the origin and 
earl}^ history of the various tribes who inhabited 
the country named India, between the two rivers 
Indus and Ganges. That country abounded in 
the most valuable productions of the soil. Rice, 
the sugar-cane, the different varieties of spices, 
and the most delicious fruits grew there and 
required little cultivation. Diamonds and other 
precious stones were also found in great abun- 
dance ; and numerous herds of camels and ele- 
phants inhabited the forests. 

2. So much wealth could not fail to awaken 
(he cupidity of ambitious conquerors. Darius, 
King of Persia, fitted a large fleet for the pur- 
pose of discovering India. The command of 
the expedition was given to Scyat, who having 
made a successful landing, conquered the best 

Questions. — 15. How were the Persian governors styled? 
1. Describe India. 2. Who attempted the conquest of this 
rich country ? 



The Indians. 41 

portion of the coveted country. The impor- 
tance of this conquest may be judged from the 
fact that these new possessions brought Darius 
a yearly income of two hundred and sixty gold 
talents — over two millions of dollars. 

3. After achieving the subjugation of Persia, 
the great conqueror, Alexander of Macedon, 
organized an expedition against India. He 
gained great advantages, and pushed as far as 
the Hydaspes, which he crossed, gaining a sig- 
nal victory over the Indian army vi^hich defended 
the shores of that river. Alexander would proba- 
bly have accomplished the subjugation of the 
Indians ; but his troops became disheartened at 
the prospect of penetrating further into that wild 
and unknown country ; and the project was 
abandoned. 

4. The Indians believed in one God, creator 
of the world. They recognized the immortality 
of the soul, but believed in Metempsychosis 
which teaches that the soul, after death, passes 
into another body. The souls of vicious and 
criminal men were condemned to live in the 
body of the vilest animals. 

5. The Bramins were the privileged caste, 
which occupied the highest offices and filled the 

Questions. — 3. What other conqueror made an expedition 
to India? With what result? 4. What were the religious 
notions of the Indians? 5. What classes were privileged 
and honored? 

4# 



42 Ancient Greece. 

priesthood ; but agriculture was held in such 
great honor, that those who tilled the soil were 
exempted from all taxation. 

6. A barbarous custom of the Indians which 
still exists to some extent in modern India, is the 
burning alive of women with the body of their 
deceased liusbands; 



CHAPTER YIII. 

Ancient Greece. 



1. The country now known as the Southern 
part of Turkey in Europe, and which is bounded 
by water on all sides except on the north, was 
formerly divided into several small kingdoms 
and states. These constituted ancient Greece. 

2. The Greeks, at first, fierce and savage 
tribes, living pretty much like the wild^beasts 
of the forests, were destined to occupy the first 
rank among nations. Their early history is 
entirely traditional and much mixed with fiction. 

3. The first remarkable enterprize of the 
Greeks transmitted to us by tradition, was the 
expedition of the Argonauts in search of the 

Qhestions. — 6. What barbarous custom existed in India ? 
1. Where was ancient Greece situated ? 2. What have you 
to say about the early history of the Greeks? 3. What first 
remarkable enterprise of the Greeks can you relate ? 



Ancient Geeece. 43 

Golden Fleece. This fabulous enterprize was 
in reality a voyage of discovery undertaken for 
the purpose of extending the commercial rela- 
tions of the Greeks, and of establishing colonies 
on the Mediterranean coast. 

4. The Golden Fleece of a wonderful ram, 
in quest of which the adventurers went, was 
simply the immense treasures of ^Etes, King 
of Cholchis, on the Euxine sea, which they 
took possession of, and brouglit back to Thes- 
salia. 

5. Another celebrated enterprize was the siege 
of Troy, or Illium, by the allied princes of 
Greece, to avenge the wrongs of Menelaus, a 
Grecian king, whose wife had eloped with 
Paris, son of Priam, King of Troy. This 
event has been rendered forever memorable by 
the admirable poems of Homer. 

6. The most ancient cify of Greece was Sic- 
yon, founded by ^Egialius, who is said to have 
been the cotemporary of Abraham's father. The 
cities, in those ancient times were so many inde- 
pendent sovereignties. The principal powers 
among these states were Sparia, in Laconia, 
and Athens, in Attica or Greece proper. These 



■ QuT!:sTiONS.~4. What, in reality, was this golden fleece? 

5. What other celebrated enterprize have the poets sung? 

6. Which was the most ancient city of Greece? The princi- 
pal powers ? 



44 Ancient Greece. 

two were rivals, and their frequent quarrels in- 
volved ihe other stales into many bloody wars. 
7. The other remarkable cities or states of 
Greece, were Argos, founded by Inachus, (1823 
B. O.;) Mycenae where reigned Pelops, who 
gave his name to the Peloponnesus ; Corinth, 
Achsea, Arcadia and Elidus. These formed 
with Sparta, the confederation of the Pelopon- 
nesus. 

8. In Attica, of which Athens was the capital, 
or principal city, was the city of Eleusis, cele- 
brated for the temple of the goddess Ceres, where 
the Eleusian mysteries, (a certain form of wor- 
ship;) took place ; Phocea ; Mount Parnassus, 
where the Muses were supposed to dwell ; a.nd 
Delphi, famous for its temple of Appolo. 

9. The wars of the Greeks, which were fre- 
quent and bloody, may be divided into three 
classes : the National or foreign, Domestic or 
civil, and Sacred wars. 

10. The first national war was caused by the 
invasion of Greece by Darius, king of Persia, 
on his return from a victorious expedition against 
the lonians who had been aided by the Atheni- 
ans. Darius landed one hundred and ten thou- 
sand men, under one of his best generals, who 

Questions. — 7. What other remarkable cities ? 8. What 
other cities in Attica ? 9. How shall we divide the wars of 
the Greeks ? 10. Tell us about the first national war. 



Ancient Greece. 45 

marched upon Athens. The Athenian general, 
Mihiades, with only ten thousand men, met 
the enemy at Maratfion and coiripletely defeated 
him. 

11. Xerxes, the son and successor of Darius, 
undertook a second invasion of Greece. The 
combined forces of the Spartans, under their 
king, Leonidas, and the Athenians under The- 
mistocles, were sent against the enemy. 

12. Leonidas imdertook to hold with three 
hundred men only, the narrow passage of Ther- 
mopilse, through which Attica could be entered 
from Thessaly, and was overpowered. The 
little band of heroes fought with desperation, 
and made a dreadful slaughter of the enemy, 
but were finally all killed with the exception of 
one man who carried the news to Sparta. The 
victorious Persians overran Attica and ravaged 
the country. They sacked and burned Athens, 
which had been abandoned by the inhabitants. 

13. Themistocles avenged his allies at the 
naval fight of Salamis, where he defeated a Per- 
sian fleet of twelve hundred galleys. Xerxes 
terrified at this destruction of the greater part of 
his naval forces, returned to Asia, leaving an 
army corps under his lieutenant, Mardonius, to 
carry on hostilities by land! But the Greeks 

Questions. — 11. The second. 12. What was the fate of 
Laonidas? 13. What victory was gained by Themistocles ? 



46 Ancient Greece. 

gained two oiher brilliant victories at Platsea and 
Mycale, and freed their soil from the hated pre- 
sence of fhe invaders. 

14. The Spar(ans erecled a monument at 
ThermopiIa3 in lionor of Leonidas and his de- 
voted companions, on which was graven this 
inscription : *'Go, Iravelier, and tell Sparta that 
we died here in obedience to her sacred laws.'' 

15. In the third national war, (405 B. C.) 
which was but a continuation of the former, 
the Greeks were the aggressors. The Persian 
empire had been divided between Artaxerxes 
Mnemon and Cyrus the Younger, sons of 
Darius Nothus ; the former ruh'ng Persia, and 
the latter the Persian provinces in Lesser Asia. 
Cyrus invaded his brother's kingdom with one 
hundred thousand barbarians and thirteen thou- 
sand Greeks, and was defeated and killed. The 
Greeks reduced to the number of ten thousand, 
made a retreat which is looked upon as the 
greatest achievement in warfare. 

16. Their officers had all been killed, they 
were continually harrassed by an overwhelnn'ng 
force, but their extraordinary courage and discip- 
line kept the enemy at bay. One of their num- 

QuESTiONS.— 13, What followed ? 14. What honor did the 
Spartans render to the memory of Leonidas and his com- 
panions? 15. Tell us about the third national war. 16. The 
retreat of the ten thousand. 



Ancient Greece. 47 

ber, Xenophon, was chosea for their leader, and 
by his superior generalship, succeeded in carry- 
ing his little army back to Greece, through 
countless fiardships and obstacles. They had 
travelled fifteen hundred miles, fighting at almost 
every step. 

IT. The rivalry existing between Sparta and 
Athens, and the ambition of the former, which 
sought to rule the destinies of Greece, brought 
about the Peloponnesian war, in which all the 
Grecian states took part. The Spartans were 
the aggressors, and invaded Attica. (431 B. C.) 
After ten years of continual civil warfare during 
which victory favored alternately the two con- 
tending parties, a treaty of peace was concluded, 
called the peace of Nicias from the name of the 
Athenian who was instrumental in securing it, 

18. Hostilities were soon resumed, however, 
by the Athenians imder the infiuence of Alcibi- 
ades, a young general of brilliant talents, and 
continued for man/ years, during which, not- 
withstanding occasional reverses, the power of 
Sparta increased corjsiderably. At last, the 
Athenians having obtained assistance from the 
King of Persia, gained a great naval victory at 
Cnidus and destroyed the superiority of Sparta 



Questions. — 17. What brought about the first civil war? 
How did it end? 18. Was the peace lasting? Who was 
victorious in this second war ? 



48 Ancient Greece. 

on the sea. They also weakened their rival's 
power on land, by subsequent victories. Peace 
was concluded ; but Sparta seeing that her pre- 
eminence was about to be lost, endeavored to 
secure the friendship and protection of Persia by 
a treaty which made that power, in fact, the 
arbiter of Greece. 387 B. C. 

19. The Theban or Beolian war, was but 
the consequence of the Peloponnesian war 
Sparta, always ambitious, and having recov- 
ered from her former losses, took possession of 
the citadel of Thebes, in violation of the treaty 
of peace. 382 B. C. The Thebans retired to 
Athens for protection They had among them 
two great citizens, Epaminondas and Pelopidas, 
who resolved to save their country and drive the 
Spartans from Thebes. Collecting a small force 
they surprised the garrison and retook the citadel. . 

20. The war was now openly declared. It 
was bloody and long, but the victory of Leucira, 
which the Thebans gained, gave a terrible blow 
to the power of Spuria, and that })ower was 
finally crushed by the victory of MantinoB, which 
put an end to the war. B. C. 363. 

21. The sncred or religious wars of the Greeks 
were undertaken for the protection of the cele- j 

Questions. — 18. What treaty did the Spartans make? I 
19. How did the Theban war break out? 2i). Tell us about 
this Theban war and its results? 21. Why were the sacred i 
'vff'ars undertaken ? 



Ancient Greece. 49 

brated Temple of Delphi, dedicated to Apollo, 
and where that god was supposed to render ora- 
cles. The first of these wars was against the 
Chryseans and Cyreans, who had despoiled 
some pilgrims on their way to Delphi, and 
robbed the temple of i(s treasures. 

22. A second war which lasted twenty-seven 
years, arose from the capture of Delphi and the 
pillaging of (he temple by the Phocians. 

23. This f^imous temple was also robbed, by 
the Gauls under Brennus. Whilst these bar- 
barians were busy plundering ihe temple, there 
arose a fearful slorm, accompanied wilh an earth- 
quake. The darkness became so dense that the 
Gauls were killing one another, believing the 
enemy was upon them. Seized wilh a strange 
terror they took to flight, crying that the god 
Pan protected the temple. It is from this inci- 
dent that tlie expression '■'panic terror, ^^ used to 
desiornate uncontrollable fear, has come. 

24. Philip, King of Macedon, had partici- 
pated in the war against the Phocians. This 
o-cive him a foothold in Attica, and his ambitious 
schemes for the subjugatioji of Greece soon be- 
came apparent. l^lie eloquent Demosthenes 
roused his countrymen to a desperate resistance, 



Questions. — 21. Against, whom Avas the first waged? 
22, The second? 23. Tell us about the Gauls in Delphi. 
24. Who schemed the subjugation of Greece, and with what 
;?esults ? 

5 



60 Ancient Greece. 

but, weakened by their continual wars, they 
could not compete with the troops of the wily 
Macedonian. The victory of Cheroneea made 
Philip the ruler of Greece. 

25. Philip was succeeded by his son Alexan- 
der, to whom posterity has awarded the surname 
of Great, for his extraordinary success in war. 
This young prince undertook with a very small 
army, the conquest of the world. In a few 
years he conquered Assyria, Persia, Media and 
Egypt. 

26. Alexander then made an expedition to 
India, and penetrated into that country as far as 
the river Ganges, conquering all that opposed 
his march. But his troops having refused to 
penetrate further into these vast and unknown 
regions, he was compelled to abandon the pro- 
ject of subjugating India. 

27. The young conqueror returned to Baby- 
lon to prepare new scheines for I he aggrandize- 
ment of his empire ; but having given himself 
up to intemperate excesses, he died ingloriously 
in the flower of his age. After his death, Greece 
did not recover her independence, but became a 
prey to revolutions and internal disturbances. 

28. The Grecian Slates finally formed a con- 

QuESTiONS. — 25. Who succeeded PhiJip? What countries 
did he conquer? 26. What expedition did he then make? 

27. What was the ultimate fate of this famous conqueror? 

28. What league was formed, by the Grecian States ? 



Ancient Greece. 51 

federacy called the Achaean League, for the 
purpose of resisting foreign invasion. This was 
their last effort at preserving (heir nationality. 
Restless Sparta became involved in a contest 
with the league, and invoked the assistance of 
the Romans. By this fatal step she secured the 
ruin of her adversaries at the cost of her own in- 
dependence. The Romans defeated the Achaean 
I army, and reduced the whole of Greece to the 
1 condition of a Roman province which look the 
I name of Achaia. 

29. No country could ever boast of as many 
great men, as did Greece in the days of her 
splendor. In science and arts, in warfare and 
literature, she held the first rank ; and her influ- 
ence, so great in the days of her independence, 
has survived her ruin and is preserved in the 
imperishable literary treasures which she has 
bequeathed to posterity. 

30. The striking contrast between the national 
traits of the two leading Grecian States, Sparta 
and Athens, was due principally to the different 
systems of civilization of the two great legislators 
of antiquity, Lycurgus and Solon. The for- 
mer made of the Spartans a people of warriors. 
Every thing like luxury was banished from the 

Questions. — 28. What act of Sparta involved the ruin of 
Greece? What was the fate of the Grecian States? 29. Did 
Greece have many great men ? 30. Contrast Sparta and 
Athens. What was the system of Lycurgus ? 



52 Ancient Greece. 

state, and the young Spartans were subjected, 
from an early age, to a physical training that 
fitted them for a soldier's life. 

31. An anecdote is told of I^ycurgus, to show 
the power and influence of education. He took 
two young hounds from the saine litter, and had 
them carefully brought up upon two very differ- 
ent plans. One of the dogs was abundantly fed 
on choice viands, and left to follow his own in- 
stincts ; the other was allowed a spare diet, and 
trained daily for the chase. One day, when the 
people were assembled on the public place, as 
was customary, Lycurgus caused the two hounds 
to be brought out. Then, at some distance be- 
fore them, a hare was let loose, and a dish of 
meat was placed on the ground. The trained 
dog at once started in pursuit of the hare, while 
his idle and well fed brother ran to the dish. 

32. ^^ O Spartans," said Lycurgus; '« these 
two hounds are of ihe same noble breed, come 
from the same litter, behold how different their 
tastes ! So is it with your children : train them, 
early, and they will become useful citizens ; 
but let them grow up in idleness and luxury, 
and they will become the degenerate victims 
of vice." 

33. Solon developed in Athens the. notions of 

Questions. — 31. Tell us the anecdote of the two young 
hounds. 32. What did Lycurgus say to the people? 
33. What were the fruits of Solon's system? 



Roman History. 53 

civilization he had brought from Egypt. The 
young Athenians were educated with the greatest 
care in every branch of study. The arts were 
cultivated, and Athens became (he cradle of 
literature and science. 

34. The result of the two systems is found in 
the glory shed upon these two States b}'^ their 
respective citizens. If Sparta could boast of 
heroes and warriors like Leonidas, Agesilaus, 
Calicratides and Pausanias, Athens had a host 
of bright names to show in every career ; states- 
men, orators, philosophers and warriors, such as 
Pericles, Demosthenes, Socrates, Aristides, Mil- 
tiades, Cymon — names that have become im- 
mortal. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Roman History. 



1. Rome was founded by Romulus, a descen- 
dant of the Trojan prince, ^neas. The poets 
relate I hat Romulus and his brother Remus, 
abandoned in the woods, were fed by n she- 
wolf. They grew up in a savage state, and 
having connected themselves with a band *of 
outlaws, they beca)Yie powerful, and undertook 

QuRSTiONS.— 34. What different results did these systems 
of education produce? 1. How and by whom was Rome 
founded ? 



54 Roman History. 

to build a city which should be their stronghold. 
It was named Rome, from Romulus. Remus 
was subsequently killed by his brother, who 
thus became sole King of Rome. 

2. Six Kings succeeded Romulus : Numa 
Pompilius, a wise legislator ; Tullus Hostilius, 
and Ancus Marcius, both warlike princes ; Tar- 
quinius Priscus and Servius Tullius, two peace- 
ful rulers, and Tarquinius Superbus, a heartless 
tyrant. 

3. The crimes of the last Tarquinius exas- 
perated his subjects, and he was banished. A 
Republic was then proclaimed, at the head of 
which were two Consuls elected by the people 
from among the Patricians. The Romans were 
divided into two classes, the Patricians or Nobles 
who were men that had distinguished them- 
selves in war and had acquired wealth ; and the 
Plebeians or working class. 

4. After several years of war caused hj the 
intrigues of the Tarquinius family to regain 
its lost power, peace was established between 
Rome and her neighbors ; but foreign war was 
succeeded by internal troubles, caused by con- 
tiaual contests of authority between the Patri- 
cians and the Plebeians. The question was 

Questions. — 2. What Kings succeeded Romulus? 
3. What change took place? How Avas the "Republic 
organized? 4. What wars followed the formation of a 
republic? 



Roman History. 55 

settled by the appointment of Magistrates called 
Tribunes, selected from among the Plebeians. 

5. Ten Senators styled Decemvirs were sub- 
sequently appointed to frame laws for the Roman 
people. The Decemvirs were vested with full 
authority ; they misused it, and a second revolu- 
tion abolished their office and reinstated the Con- 
suls in power. 

6. The Romans became involved in a war 
with the Gauls, who had invaded the territory of 
Etruria, their ally. Brennus, at the head of the 
warlike Gauls, defeated the Roman army, and 
entered Rome, which he sacked and burned. 
The Roman general, Camillus, subsequently 
defeated the Gauls and drove them out of the 
country ; and Rome was rebuilt. 

7. The Romans next engaged in a war with 
the Samnites, and subjugated that people after 
upwards of fifty years of almost continual war- 
fare. They afterwards conquered the l^aren- 
tines, and defeated Pyrrhus, King of Epirus, who 
had given them aid. 

8. War having been declared between the 
Mamertines, and Hiero, King of Syracuse, as- 
sisted by the Carthaginians, the Romans sent an 
army to aid the Mamertines, which defeated the 

Questions. — 5. What about the Decemvirs ? 6. What war 
did the Roraans become involved in ? What was the result ? 
7. What war followed this one? 8. How did the war with 
Carthage originate? 



56 Roman History. 

combined forces of the enetny. Thus was inau- 
gmated the struggle between Rome and Car- 
thage, known as the first Punic war, which last- 
ed twenty-five years. 

9. Although the Romans had not had, hither- 
to, any experience in naval warfare, they gained 
several victories over the maritime power ihey 
were combating. The Roman general, Regu- 
lus, landed an army in Africa, and defeated the 
Carthaginians. But, defeated in his turn, he 
was taken prisoner, and put to death in a most 
cruel manner. The consul, Lutatius, was sent 
against the enemy ; and, after gaining several 
victories, compelled him at last to sue for peace. 
It was granted upon the condition that the Car- 
thaginian troops should leave Sicily. 

10. The second Punic war commenced twen- 
ty-three years after the termination of the first. 
The great Carthaginian general, Hannibal, in- 
vaded Italy, and defeated the Romans in four 
consecutive encounters. The last, the battle of 
Cannaj, cost the Romans the most fearful loss of 
life they had ever sustained in battle : they left 
forty thousand among the slain. 

11. Two able generals, Fabius and Marcel- 
lus, succeeded at last in checking Hannibal's 



QuKSTFONS. — 8. What isitcalled? 9. What was thesuc- 
cess of the Romans? 10. What about the second Punic war ? 
11. Who checked Hannibal's progress ? 



Roman History. 57 

progress in Italy. Meanwhile, Scipio,surnamed 
*^ the African," crossed into Africa and marched 
upon Carthage, compelling Hannibal to hasten 
back to defend his capital. Hannibal met with 
a complete defeat, and peace was again made. 
This second war had lasted sixteen years. 

12. During this protracted contest, the Ro- 
mans were also making war upon Macedon and 
Syria. They completely subjugated the former, 
and compelled the latter to sue for peace. 

13. The jealousy of Rome against her power- 
ful rival was not appeased ; and, fifty years after 
the second Punic war, she seized a pretext to 
renew hostilities. Carthage was at last taken 
by Publius Cornelius Scipio, and burnt to the 
ground. 

14. Soon after this event, the Romans went 
to war with the Achaean League, and subjugated 
all the Grecian States. 

'[5. At peace with other nations, the Roman 
Republic was again torn by civil dissensions. A 
revolution to overthrow the power of the Patri- 
cians was headed by Tiberius and Caius Grac- 
chus, better known as the Gracchi ; which result- 
ed in the slaughter and defeat of the revolutionists. 



Questions,- 11. Who carried the war into Africa ? How 
did this war end? 12. What other wars did the Eomans 
wage during this contest? 13. What was the result of the 
third Punic war? 14. What country was next subjugated 
by the Romans ? 15. What civil troubles followed? 



58 Roman History. 

16. Other foreign wars succeeded. '^J^he first 
against Jugurtha, King of Numidia, was ter- 
minated successfully by Caius Marius, w^ho also 
defeated the Teutones, the Cimbri, and other 
northern tribes that had penetrated into Gaul, 
Spain, and Italy. 

17. Next came the Mithridalic war, waged 
against Mithridates, King of Pontus, who sought 
to check the overwhelming power of Rome. 
The Roman Sylla had been put in command ; 
Marius, by his intrigues, got himself appointed 
in his place. Sylla returned to Rome, and ob- 
tained that Marius should be banished. A civil 
war ensued. Marius, recalled by his partizans, 
ruled Rome with a rod of iron ; but Sylla having 
vanquished Mithridates, overthrew his rival and 
was proclaimed Dictator. 

1 8. The war against Mithridates recommenced 
and raged with fury until that king was defeated by 
Pompey , near the Euphrates. Mithridates would 
not survive his defeat, and killed himself. Pom- 
pey achieved the conquest of Asia with little diffi- 
culty, after the deatli of the brave King of Pontus. 

19. Rome was again convulsed by internal 
troubles. Spartacus, a gladiator, at the head of an 
army of revolted slaves, defeated the Roman army 



Questions.— 16. What foreign wars? 17. Tell us about 
the Mithridatic war, and its first consequences? 18. How 
did this war end? 19. What new trouble aifose in Rome? 



Roman History. 59 

on several occasions ; but was finally vanquished 
by Lucius Crassus, and his forces put to the sword. 

20. Another danger which threatened the 
trancjuihty of tfie republic, was the conspiracy of 
Cataline. The prompt measures adopted by 
Cicero, who was then consul, foiled the schemes 
of the conspirators. Their forces were annihi- 
lated, and Cataline was killed in the fight. 

21 . The governjnent was next placed in the 
hands of the Triumvirs , Pompey, Csesar and 
Crassus. Whilst his colleagues remained in 
Rome, Csesar undertook the conquest of (he 
Gauls, overran the continent, and even landed 
an expedilion in England, and subjected the 
Britons to pay tribute. 

22. Crassus died, and Pompey saw with jeal- 
ousy the growing influence of Csesar. He 
attempted to injure him. Caesar returned to 
Rome, w^as proclaimed consul, and pursued 
Pompey into Greece. The rivals met on the 
plains of Pharsalia, and Caesar was victorious. 
Pompey fled into Egypt, where he was sub- 
sequently murdered. 

23. Csesar had followed Pompey into Egypt, 
and arriving at Alexandria, he learned the death 
of his former friend and late adversary, and could 

QuKSTiONS. — 20. What conspiracy tlireatened the Kepub- 
lie? 21. What change was made in the government? 
22. What quarrel took place between Ceesar and Pompey? 
How did it end ? 23. What happened to Caesar in Egypt 



60 Roman History. 

not help shedding tears upon the sad fate of that 
truly great man. Ptolemy, King of Egypt, and 
his sister Cleopatra were disputing about the pos- 
session of the throne. Ceesar attempted to recon- 
cile them, and gave offence to the King, who in 
consequence attacked him. Although having 
greatly inferior forces, Cajsar defeated the Egyp- 
tians and put them to flight. Ptolemy was 
drowned in the Nile, and Cleopatra was pro- 
claimed Queen of Egypt. 

24. The victorious Roman then passed into 
Asia, where he defeated Pharnaces, the son of 
Mithridates. So rapid was his march, and 
prompt his success, that he expressed it in the 
famous words : vini, vidi, vici — " 1 came, I 
saw, I conquered." With equal rapidity he 
now crossed into Africa, and gave the last blow 
to the Pompeian party, at the battle of Thapsus, 
which he gained over the combined forces of 
Cato, Scipio and Juba, King of Mauritania,. 

25. Caesar returned to Rome to enjoy his 
triumph, and was proclaimed Dictator for ten 
years. He now gave full sway to his ambition, 
and planned vast schemes for the extension of 
the Roman empire and his own aggrandizement. 
A conspiracy was formed against him by the prse- 

QuKSTiONS. — 24. Where did Cpesar go to, uext? How did 
lie express the rapidity of his success? What did he do in 
Africa? 25. What happened after Caesar's return to Rome? 
What was his end ? 



I Roman History. 61 

tors Cassiiis and Biutus, who suspected he was 
about to destroy the liberties of tlie Roman peo- 
ple ; they murdered him in the senate chamber. 

26. New troubles followed the death of Ca3sar. 
A triuiTiv irate was formed, composed of Mark 
Antony, Octavius Caisar and Lepidus. The 
triumvirs pursued the murderers of Caesar, who 
had collected an ariTiy in the east, and defeated 
them at Philippi. Cassius and Brutus put an 
end to their own lives, and with them died the 
last hopes of the Republican party. 

27. Lepidus waj now set aside by his two 
colleagues wiio divided the power. They soon 
quarreled, and Octavius followed his rival to 
Egypt, where Antony, infatuated with the charms 
of the beautiful Cleopatra, had retired. The 
naval battle of Actium, shamefully lost by 
Antony, put an end to the contest. 

28. Octavius left in full power by the death 
of Antony, took the title of emperor, and the 
Roman Senate gave him the surname of Augus- 
tus ; under which name he is known as the 
founder of the Roman empire. 

29. The reign of Augustus was made forever 
meiriorable by the temporal birth of our Saviour. 

Questions. — 26. What troubles followed the death of 
CiBoar? 27. What was the fate of the triumvirs? How did 
the contest end? 28. Who remained in power, and what 
ha);)pened ? 29. What has made the reign of Augustus for- 
ever memorable ? 

6 



63 Discovery of America. 

CHAPTER X. 

Discovery of America. 

1. Before studying the history of other coun 
tries we should be well acquainted with the his- 
tory of our own. For it would be a great shame 
for our little readers, if they were able to relate 
all the events, that took place in Greece and 
Rome, and at the same time retnain ignorant of 
the history of our own country ; to be able to 
numerate the battles of Alexander, Caesar and 
Pompey, and to be ignorant of those fought in 
our own country, by which our happiness and 
freedom were secured. 

We will therefore, commence our study with 
the history of America. 

2. America, the happy country in which you 
live, was discovered by Christopher Columbus. 
For many centuries, this country was imFnown 
to the people of the old world. There was 
another very rich country situated to the east 
of Europe, called the East Indies. The people 
of Europe frequently went to that country, and 
obtained silk, gold and many other valuable 



Questions.— 1. Before studying the history of other coun- 
tries, what is said ? What would be a great shame? 2. By 
Avhom was America discovered ? What other country was 
known ? What did the people of Europe do? 



Discovery of America. 63 

articles. But the route, by which they used to 
go to the East Indies, was very long, and at the 
same time, difficult and expensive ; they there- 
fore, desired to find a shorter and less dangerous 
one. 

3. At that time they were obliged to go to the 
Indies, by crossing Egypt and passing through 
the Red Sea and then sailing across the Indiaa 
Ocean. 

In order to obtain an easier route, they were 
endeavoring to find a passage by sailing along 
the western coast of Africa, until they reached 
the southern part, and then sailing directly east. 

4. While in pursuit of this object, it entered 
the inind of Columbus, that a more direct pass- 
age might be found by sailing westwardly across 
the Atlantic ocean. 

Columbus was a learned man, and well skilled 
in navigation, having been engaged in a sea- far- 
ing life from an early age. 

5. He made several voyages across the Medi- 
terranean sea, and sailed to the seas north of 
Europe. There are many striking incidents in 
his life, from which we select the following. 

6. On one occasion, as he was cruising near 

Questions. — 2. What is said of the route ? 3. At that time 
how did they go to the Indies ? What were they endeavor- 
ing to do? 4. While in pursuit of this object, what entered 
the mind of Columbus? What is said of Columbus? 6. What 
did he make? 6. On one occasion what happened to him? 



II 



64 Discovery of America. 

(he coast of Portugal, llie vessel in which he 
sailed took fire. The blaze spread from sail to 
sail, and in a few moments the whole vessel was 
enveloped in flames. To save themselves from, 
this devouring element, Columbus and his com- * 
panions were obliged to leap into the sea. They 
were six miles from land, and they all. perished 
except Columbus. He was an excellent swim- 
mer, and with the assistance of an oar, which he 
found floating in the water, he reached the land. 

7. After many adventures, he arrived at Lis- 
bon, where he married the daughter of an emi- 
nent navigator. He still followed the sea, and 
made several voyages to the Madeira islands, 
which were discovered shortly before that time. 
In the meantime, his mind was actively bent on 
finding a passage to the East Indies. 

Prom the figure of the earth, which w^as then 
known to be round, he concluded, that he might 
reach the Indies by sailing westwardly-from 
Europe. 

8. Being convinced of this theory, he was 
anxious to test it by experiment. He therefore 
applied for assistance to the senate of his native 
country, Genoa, but to his great mortification that 



QuKSTioxs. — fi. To save himself wliat did he do? How did Co- 
lumbus reach the land ? 7. Where did he arrive? What did he 
follow? In the meantime what is said of his mind? From the 
figure of the earth what was concluded? 8. Where did he apply 
lor assistance? What was the result? 



Discovery of America. 65 

body regarded his theory as foohsh, and refused 
to assist him. 

9. He next apph'ed to the King of Portngal, 
who attentively hstened to his theory, and tlien 
secretly sent a vessel on a voyage of discovery, 
with the hope of being able to accomplish the 
great object of CoIun)bus. But the captain 
of the vessel was a man without experienced, 
and soon returned without having made any 
discovery. 

10. Columbus, disgusted with this base arti- 
fice, sent his brother to sohcit the aid of the king 
of England ; his brother, however, being taken 
by pirates, did not reach England for several 
years. In the meantime Columbus applied to 
Ferdinand and Isabella, the king and queen of 
Spain. Here he met with a kind reception, and 
his project received a favorable hearing, 

11. But the counsellors of the king, had but 
little experience in naval science, and they could 
not understand the (heory of Columbus. Some 
maintained, that he could not be wiser than all 
those who lived before him ; others concluded 
that, if the world were round, he would find a 
constant and rapid descent on the other side, and 



Questions.— 9. Where did he next apply? What did the king 
do? What is said of the captain? 10. Where did he f^end his 
brother? What happened to him ? Wliere did Columbus apply? 
What did he meet? 11. What is said of the counsellors of the 
king? What did some maintain? What did others conclude? 



66 Discovery of America. 

his vessel would either fall off, or, at all events, 
it could never return to Europe, 

12. Such were the weak objections to the 
theory of Columbus ; the king, however, deemed 
them sufficiently strong to induce him to reject 
the proposals of Columbus, and to refuse to aid 
him in his great designs. A 

13. Columbus remained five years in Spain, 
during which time, he solicited, but in vain, 
the patronage of the Spanish sovereigns. He 
was about to withdraw in despair, when a 
change took place in his favor. 

Isabella, the consort of Ferdinand, was an 
amiable and virtuous woman ; she considered 
the glory that would arise from the accomplish- 
ment of so great an enterprise; she was more- 
over desirous of spreading the Christian religion, 
by converting to Christianity the inhabitants of 
these distant regions. She, therefore, resolved 
to assist Columbus. 

14. But the long war, which the Spaniards 
had, previous to that time, carried on with the 
Moors, left her without the means of accomplish- 
ing this noble design. This being the state of 
affairs, she resolved to pledge her crown and 
jewels, in order to raise the amount necessary to 

Questions.— 12. What is said of objections to the theory of Colum- 
bus? 13. How long did Columbus remain in Spain ? What is said 
of Isabella? What was she desirous of spreading, and what did 
she resolve ? 14. How did the war leave Isabella ? What did she 
resolve? 



Discovery op America. 67 

defray the expenses of Uie expedilion. From 
this embarrassment, however, she Was happily 
reheved by two Spanish noblemen, who gener- 
ously advanced (he required sum. 

15. Without delay, a small fleet of three ves- 
sels was made ready for sea, and Columbus was 
created commander of the expedition. 

On the 3d of August, in the year 1492, Colum- 
bus set sail from Paios, a port of Spain. 

16. He directed his course to (he Canary 
Islands, where he remained a short time repair- 
ing his vessels, and (hen, taking a westward ly 
direction, he stretched forth upon ihe bosom of 
the unknown deep. 

In a short time (he Spaniards lost sigfit of 
land ; they could see nolhing but water spreading 
around them, and the blue sky above (heir heads. 
They were at length seized with fear ; (hey 
thought they would never again see land ; and 
in this state of mind they entreated Columbus to 
return to Spain. 

17. Columbus at first endeavored to calm their 
fears and silence their murmurs, by gentle words 
and promises of great rewards ; but finding that 
they only increased in their clamors, he took a 



Questions.— 14. How was she relieved? 15. What was made 
ready for pea ? 16. Where did he direct liis courge ? What is said 
of the Spaniards ? With what were they seized, and what did they 
entreat? 17. What did Columbus endeavor? Then what did ho 
assume and tell them ? 



68 Discovery of America. 

decided stand, and told them that the expedition 
had been sent by the sovereigns of Spain, to find 
a passage to the Indies, and, with the blessing 
of heaven, he was determined to persevere until 
he should accomplish the enterprize. 

18. In their great anxiety to accomplish thai 
object of the voyage, the Spanish mariners often 
thought they beheld some distant shore, and the 
joyful sound of land^ land, was frequently heard ; 
but as the}'^ advanced, these delusive hopes were 
dispelled, and the fancied land disappeared from 
their view. 

19. Our young readers will remember, that 
Columbus and his companions were Catholics ; 
and now, surrounded by a thousand dangers, 
upon the bosom of the vast Atlantic, and far 
distant from home and kindred, they placed 
themselves under the protection of heaven, and 
sought consolation in the practice of their re- 
ligion. _^ 

Every evening the crews of the different ves- 
sels assembled upon deck, and as the sun disap- 
peared behind the w^estern waters, they chanted 
forth that beautiful hymn, the Salve Kegina, 
in honor of the Blessed Virgin, under whose 
patronage they sailed. 

Questions. — 18. In their anxiety what did they think? What 
sound was often heard ? 10. What mu.st be remembered ? What 
is. said? Under whom did they place themselves? What did 
they do every evening.? 



I 



r 



Discovery of America. 69 



20. Columbus was almost conslantly on deck 
overseeing every thing himself. He carefully 
watched every change in the appearance of the 
slq^, and noled every difference in the tempera- 
lure of I lie weather. For some days the weather 
had seemed more mild than usual, and the 
sounding line had touched the bottom. Birds 
of various plumage were seen flying about the 
ships, and often resting upon them. Reeds, 
and different kinds of weeds, were observed 
floating in the water. From all these things, 
Columbus concluded that land was not far dis- 
tant. 

21. One night, while standing in the fore- 
castle of his vessel, he beheld a light carried 
about from place to place, and shortly after 
midnight the joyful sound of land was heard 
from the crew of the Pinta. From this moment 
until the return of day, all on board were held 
in the deepest suspense ; but, as the morning 
dawned, their doubts were removed, a beautiful 
island presented itself to their view. 

22. The crew of the Pinta immediately broke 
forth into an hymn of thanksgiving to God, in 
which they were joined by the crews of the 

Questions. — 20. What is said of Columbus? For some days how 
did the weather seem ? What is said of birds, reeds, &c. ? From 
these, what did Columbus conclude? 21. One night what did he 
behold? What was heard? From this moment, what is said? 
22. What did the crew of the Pinta do? 






70 Discovery of America. 

other vessels ; and as the notes of. the anther 
were wafted gently upon the morning air, teai 
of joy gushed from the eyes of those rough sea- 
men. This office of gratitude to heaven, waS 
followed by an act of retribution to their com- 
mander ; they threw themselves at his feet, the 
kissed his hand, and in the humblest manne 
asked his forgiveness for their rashness and diso- 
bedience. 

23. On the 11th of October, in the year 1492, 
Columbus in a rich dress, and with a drawn 
sword in his hand, landed upon the shores of 
the New World. His companions immediately 
followed, and falling upon their knees, they kissed 
the ground with tears of joy and gratitude. 

They next erected a cross, and prostrating 
themselves before it, returned solemn thanks to 
God, whose benign hand had guided them safely 
through a thousand dangers, and had conducted 
their voyage to so happy an issue. 

24. They then took possession of the country, 
in the name of the- king and queen of Spain. 
Upon landing the Spaniards found the country 
inhabited by a race of people, differing from any 
they had ever before seen. They were of a 
dark copper color, without beards, and their hair 

Questions. — 22. By whnt was this office followed? 23. On the 
11th of October what did Columbus do ? What did his compan- 
ions do? What did they erect? 24. How did they take possession 
of the country ? On landing what did they find? 



Discovery of America. 71 

flowing" loosely upon their shoulders. The na- 
tives were equally surprised at Ihe appearance of 
the Spaniards, whom they regarded as the chil- 
dren of their god, the sun ; they supposed the 
ships were species of animals, with eyes of light- 
ning and voices of thunder. 

25. The first land discovered by Columbus, 
was one of the Bahama islands, called by him 
Saint Salvador, now called Cat island. He 
afterwards discovered Cuba and Hayti, to which 
he gave the name of Hispaniola. As Columbus 
had reached these islands by a western passage, 
he believed them not far distant from India ; he 
therefore styled them the West Indies, and the 
inhabitants were called Indians, a name which 
they have retained to the present time. 

26. Columbus, after spending some time in 
exploring the country, and having collected a 
quantity of gold, prepared to return to Spain. 
During the voyage his little fleet encountered 
many dangers ; a violent storm raged for fifteen 
days, and every moment threatened instant de- 
struction to the vessels, 

27. While the storm lasted, Columbus wrote 
a short account of his voyage and discoveries, 

! Questions.— 24. What is said of the natives? What did they sup- 
I pose the ships? 25. What land was first discovered? What did 
j he afterwards discover ? What did he cail it? The inliabitants ? 
I 26. What did CoUimbus do? During the voyage what liappened? 
How long did it last? 27. While the storm lasted what did Colum- 
I bus do ? 



72 Discovery of Amkrica. 



1 



i 



f 



and enclosed it in a cake of wax ; (his he placed 
in a cask, and cast it into the sea, with a hope 
that it might fall into the hands of some navi- 
gator, and tims preserve to the world the benefit 
of his discoveries. The storm however abated, 
and on tiie loth of May, in the yenr 1493, after 
an absence of about seven months he reached 
the port of Palos, from which he had sailed. 

2S. He was received with the loudest accla- 
m;ilions by the people, who gazed with aston- 
ishment on the gold, and the manv curiosities, 
which he brought from the New World. From 
Palos he went to Barcelona, where he was 
kindly received by Ferdinand and Isabella. ^ 
They lisiened to his adventures with the deep- 
est interest. They asked many questions con- 
cerning the country he hnd discovered, and 
viewed, with delight and astonishment, the 
treasures he had brought. 

29. Columbus made three other voyages to 
the New World, diuir)g which lie visited many 
of the West India islands, and in his third voy- 
age, he discovered the continent, and touched 
at several places in the northern part of South 
America. 

But his success and the manv^ marks of respect 

Questions. — 27. What port did he reaeli? 28. How was lie re- i 

eeived ? From Palos whore did he go? How did they listen to i 

him,&c.? 29. How man}' voyages did Columbus make? In which | 

did he discover the continent? What is said of his success, &c. ? <j 



Discovery op America. 73 

shown hiin by the king, excited against him the 
jealousy of the Spanish courtiers. 

30. They circulated against him many false 
and groundless charges, in consequence of which 
he was deprived of the government of Hispaniola, 
and sent home in chains. The captain of the 
vessel in which he returned, through respect for 
his illustrious captive, offered to release him from 
his confinement. But the venerable Columbus 
replied : ^^ No, I wear these chains in conse- 
quence of an order from their majesties, the 
rulers of Spain. They will find me as obe- 
dient in this as in every other injunction. By 
their command T have been confined, and their 
command alone shall set me at liberty." 

31. On his return to Spain, a prisoner and in 
chains, the voice of indignation was heard from 
every quarter. The king himself seemed to feel 
a momentary remorse ; he ordered Columbus to 
be set at liberty, but ungratefully retained him 
in Spain, until he had appointed another person 
governor of Hispaniola. 

32. Columbus never forgot this unjust treat- 
ment ; during the remainder of his life, he car- 
ried about with him the chains with which he 
had been bound, and gave orders that they 



Questions. — 30. What did they circulate ? What was the conse- 
quence ? What did the captain offer ? What did Columbus replj'? 
31. On his return to Spain, what is said ? What did the king 
r order? 32, What is said of Columbus? 

T 



74 Discovery of America, 

should be buried with him in his grave. His 
spirit of enterprise was not subdued ; he under- 
took a fourth voyage to the New World, duringji 
which he was shipwrecked on the isle of Jamaica; 
and after enduring a variety of dangers and suf- 
ferings, he returned to Spain. 

33. He died shortly after his return, at Valla- 
dolid, in the sixty-fifth year of his age. His 
last moments were devoted to prayer, and to the 
reception of the last rites of that religion, which j 
he had cherished and practised during his life ; 
and his last words were those of the Royal Pro- 
phet : Into thy hands ^ O Lord, 1 commend my 
spirit. 

CHAPTER XL 

Discoveries made by other Navigators. 

I. Although Columbus discovered the New 
World, he has been unjustly deprived of the 
honor of associating his name with the country 
he discovered. In the year 1499, Americus 
Vespucius, a native of Florence, made a voyage 
to the Western World, and discovered a part of 
South America. On his return to Spain, he 

Questions. — 32. What did he afterwards undertake ? During 
which, what happened? 33. Where did he die? What is said of 
his last moments? What were his last words? 1. Of what was 
Columbus deprived ? In 1499, who made a voyage to the western 
world ? On his return, what did he do ? 1 



Discovery op America. 75 

published an account of his voyage, and claimed 
the honor of having been the first to discover ihe 
main land : and thus from Americus, the conti- 
nent gradually received the name of America. 

2. In the year 1519, Magellan, a Portuguese 
navigator, then in the service of Spain, sailed to 
the New World, on a voyage of discovery. He 
passed around the coast of South America, and 
sailed through the straits, which now bear his 
name, and entered the Pacific ocean. 

Magellan lost his life on one of the Philippine 
islands, but his men proceeded on their voyage, 
and sailed around the globe. 

3. In the year 1497, John Cabot, under a 
commission from Henry VII. of England, sailed 
on a voyage of discovery, and discovered the 
continent of North America a year before the 
main land of South America had been discovered 
by Columbus. Cabot sailed southward along 
(he coast as far as Florida, erected crosses at vari- 
ous points as he passed, and took possession of 
the country in the nameof the King of England. 

Questions, — 1. From whom did the country receive its name? 
2. What is said of Magellan? What did he pass ? Where did he 
lose his life? 3. In 1497, what did Cabot discover? What did he 
.erect and do? 



76 America. 

CHAPTER XII. 

The Dicovery and Conquest op Mexico 
BY Hernandez Cortez. 

1 . At an early period after the discovery of 
America, the Spaniards were apprised of the 
existence of the rich and powerful empire of 
Mexico. 

The governor of Cuba, having" conceived the 
design of subjugating it to the power of Spain, 
fitted out a small fleet for that purpose, and 
placed it under the command of Hernando Cor- 
tez. On the 10th of January, 1519, Cortez 
sailed from Cuba with eleven small vessels, hav- 
ing on board six hundred men, sixteen horses, 
six pieces of artillery and a few muskets. As 
soon as he reached the continent, he caused him-4 
self to be proclaimed independent of the governor 
of Cuba, (who had already revoked the commis- , 
sion entrusted to him,) and accountable to none 
but the monarch of Spain. 

2. Cortez next laid the foundation of the 
colony of Vera Cruz, on the site where the 
present city of that name stands ; and the bet- 
ter to inspire his men in their arduous under- 

QuESTioNS. — 1. At an early period, of what were the Spaniards 
apprised? What did the Governor of Cuba do? On the 10th of 
January, 1519, what did Cortez do? As soon as he reached the 
continent, wliat did he do? 2. What did he next do? What did 
he do with his vessels. 



Conquest of Mexico. 77 

taking, by cuUing off all hope of returning, he 
caused all his vessels to be burnt on the coast. 
He then directed his march to the city of 
Mexico, the capital of the empire, then called 
Tenochtitlan. 

The country was then under the dominion of 
Montezuma, a sovereign, who ruled with des- 
potic sway. 

Many of his subjects were dissatisfied with his 
government, and only waited for an opportunity 
to revolt against it. They regarded Cortez, as 
he passed ibrough the country, as a deliverer, 
entered into an alliance with him, and supplied 
him with provisions. 

3. Cortez met with but little opposition, until 
he arrived at Tlascala. The inhabitants of this 
province, who were still true to their allegiance 
to Montezuma, united to oppose his progress. 
Several battles were fought, in which many of 
the Tlascalans were slain ; but at length, findinsf 

^themselves unable to cope with the superior skill 
and valor of the Spaniards, they consented to 
treat with them as friends, and from that time 
they became their most faithful allies. 

4. In the meantime, Montezuma was in- 

QuESTiONS. — 2. Where did he then direct his march ? Under 
whose dominion was the country ? What is said of his subjects ? 
How did they regard Cortez ? 3. What is said of Cortez? Of the 
inhabitants of this province ? Wliat followed, and what did the 
Tlascalans do ? 4. In the meantime, of what was Montezuma 
1 informed? 

7# 



"^^ America. 

formed tlmt strangers had entered the counlry, 
and that they were on their way to the capital. 
At first, the emperor sent a messenger to Corlez 
to enquire, why he and his followers had entered 
his dominions. 

Cortez rephed, that he could only dehver his 
answer to the monarch himself, and persisted in 
going to the capital. To this Montezuma would 
not consent, and despached another messenger 
to forbid him to approach any nearer ; but°atf 
the same time, he sent to Cortez, magnificent 
presents. 

5. Afier a march of se\eral days, the Spaniardslj 
arrived at the cily of Tezcuco, where (hey were'' 
kindly received by (he inhabitants. Leaving this 
cily, Cortez led his little army towards the capi- 
tal of the Mexican empire. Having crossed a 
mountainous country, he entered a beautiful 
valley of great extent. In (he middle of this 
valley, stood the vast and populous city of , 
Mexico. It contained at that time, according 
to some historians, about sixty thousand houses^ 
with a proportionate number of inhabitants. 

6. The city was built in (he middle of a lake, 
but connected to the main land by bridges; 

it was well fortified, and adorned with a num- 

. <• 

QuE.sTio.xs.-4. Wliat did he firi.t do? "wh^^Tdid^rtez reply' 
What followed ? 5. Where did the Spaniards arrive ' Havine 
crossed a mountainous country, what did thev enter ■> What was 
in this valley? What did it contain at that time? 6. Where was 
the city built ? With what was it fortified ' 



CoNQ,Tri5ST OF Mkxico. 79 

ber of temples, palaces, and other public build- 
ings. 

As the Spaniards approached the city, they 
were met at a distance by hundreds of the in- 
habitants, who ^azed in astonishment on the 
strangers. Shortly they beheld a company of 
about two hundred men, richly dressed ; these 
were the emperor's attendants ; and, finally, 
Montezuma himself appeared. He was seated 
upon a chair of gold, and carried on the shoul- 
ders of four men, while others supported over 
him a canopy made of colored feathers. He 
was dressed in a robe of fine cotton, richly orna- 
mented with gold and silver, and wore on his 
head a crown of gold. 

7. Cortez and Montezuma met, and saluted 
each other with the most profound respect, and, 
after some ceremonies, entered the city together. 
A large palace was assigned to (Jorlez and his 
troops, and they were abundantly supplied with 
provisions. 

8. At the time the Spaniards first visited 
Mexico, the people were entirely ignorant of the 
true God, and worshipped numerous idols or 
false gods. To these they erected splendid 
temples, which were attended by a multitude 

Questions. — 6, How were the Spaniards met? Shortly what did 
they behold? How was he seated and carried? How was he 
dressed? 7. What is said of Cortez and Montezuma? What was 
assigned to Cortez? 8. At the time the Spaniards visited Mexico, 
what is said of the people ? What did they erect ? 



so America. 

of priests. They sacrificed (housands of human 
viclims lo their deities. These victims were 
generally prisoners taken in war ; the priests 
could put them to death at any time, in honor 
of the gods. 

9. The Spaniards had not remained long 
in the city before an attack was made, by a 
Mexican general, on their colony at Vera Cruz. 
No sooner was Cortez informed of this cir- 
cumstance, than he formed the bold and dan- 
gerous design of arresting Montezuma himself. 
Taking with him a small band of resolute 
men, he entered the imperial palace, and com- 
pelled the monarch to return with him to his 
residence. 

10. While these things were going on in the 
city of Mexico, Cortez was informed that the 
governor of Cuba had despatched a fleet of 
eighteen ships, and nine hundred men to arrest 
himself and his companions as rebels. This in- 
telligence rendered his situation extremely per- 
plexing. He knew if he withdrew his forces 
entirely from the city, he would lose all the ad- 
vantages he had gained : on the other hand, if 
he did not oppose the Spaniards, who were sent 
against him, he foresaw that his own life, and 

' A 

QUEST10NS.-8. Wliat did they sacrifice? What is said of these 
victims ? 9. What is said of the Spaniards t What did Cortez do ? 
10. While these things were going on, what was Cortez informed ' 
What did he know? On the other hand what is said ? 



CoNGtUEST OF MeXICO. 81 

the lives of his followers, were in the most immi- 
nent danger. 

11. He, therefore, resolved to adopt a medium 
course Leaving one hundred and fifty men in 
the city, under the command of Alvarado, he set 
out with two hundred and fifty others to meet 
his new opponents. Never was an enterprise 
more successfully conducted. He surprised the 
nine hundred Spaniards, and took them prison- 
ers, with tfieir general, Narvaez, and having 
taken the vanquished into his own service, he 
returned in triumph to Mexico. 

12. On his return, he found that the Mexi- 
cans had broken out into open insurrection ; they 
surrounded the pajace in which the Spaniards 
resided, and threatened their destruction. 

On one of these occasions, Montezuma ap- 
peared on the walls, with a view to check the 
fury of the populace. When the people saw 
him they were silent, and bowed to the earth 
with the deepest reverence. He told them that 
the Spaniards v/ere his friends, and ordered them 
to retire peacefully to their homes. This order 
was received with indignation by the multitude ; 
at first a low murmur w^as heard ; it grew louder 
and louder, until at length it burst forth into an 

Questions.— 11. What did he resolve? What did he do with 

regard to the nine hundred Spaniards? 12. On his return what 

did he find? On one ol these occasions what did Montezuma do ? 

What is said of the people ? What did he order them ? How was 

f this order received? What followed ? 



82 America. 

angry shout ; a shower of darls and stones were 
cast upon the walls, and the monarch fell wound-| 
ed to the ground. 

13. Montezuma was carried into the castle ; 
but, finding himself wounded, refused to take 
nourishment and died in a few days. 

Immediately after his death, Queflavaca suc- 
ceeded to the throne. Under this monarch, the 
attack on the Spaniards was renewed with re- 
doubled fury. A large body of Mexicans had 
assembled on the top of a high temple, which 
overlooked the Spanish castle, and had collected 
there a large quantity of stones for the purpose of 
throwing them upon their enemies. Cortez, 
with a small band of the bravest of his men, 
went to drive the Mexicans from the temple. 

14. Here a fearful contest ensued. The 
Mexicans fought with desperation ; and, many 
of them preferring to die rather than to submit 
to the Spaniards, leaped from the lofty pinnacle 
of the temple, and were crushed to death in 
the fall. In this engagement Cortez narrowly 
escaped with his life. Two of the Mexicans 
singled him out for destruction, and resolved 
to perish with him. With this intention, they 
rushed towards the spot where he stood, and 



Questions — 12. What was cast upon the walls? 13. What is said 
of Montezuma? Under his successor what took place? Where 
did a body of Mexicans assemble ? What did Cortez do ? 14. What 
ensued? What is said of the Mexicans? Of Cortez. 



Conquest of Mexico. 83 

seizing him, they dragged him to the edge of 
the pinnacle and leaped over the railing, in- 
tending to drag him after them. But Cortez, 
who was a man of great strength, held fast 
to the railing, while his two antagonists fell, 
and were dashed to pieces upon the earth be- 
neath. 

15. Cortez, however, finding his situation 
growing daily more dangerous, resolved to 
withdraw for a short time from the city. Ac- 
cordingly, under the cover of a dark and rainy 
night, he set out with his army, hoping to 
escape the vigilance of his enemies. His 
movements, however, were carefully watched 
by the Mexicans, who availed themselves of 
every opportunity of destroying the unwelcome 
strangers. The Spaniards had crossed the lake 
imperceived, and were about to enter a breach 
in the causeway, when they were assailed by a 
shower of darts, arrows and stones. A dreadful 
scene of confusion followed. The darkness of 
night was so great, that ihey were unable to 
distinguish their friends or foes. Thousands of 
Mexicans were slain ; while on the other hand, 
Cortez lost several hundred of his Spanish troops, 
and more than one thousand of his Tlascalan 



Questions. — 14. How did he save himself? 15. What did Cortez 
resolve? What is said of his movements? When the Spaniards 
had crossed the lake, what took place? What followed? What 
f^ did Cortez lose? 



84 America. 

allies, with nearly all his horses, artillery, a^ad 
bao^o^ag-e. 

16. The Spaniards retreated towards Tlascala, 
through the valley of Oliunba. Bnt, when they 
came in sight of this valley, I hey were surprised 
to find it occupied by an army of several hun- 
dred thousand Mexicans. The general of the 
empire appeared conspicuous in the midst of this 
vast mullitude. He was borne aloft upon a 
splendid litter, and carried in his hand the 
imperial standard, which was never unfurled 
except on the most important occasions. 

17. At the siglit of this immense army, Cor- 
tez was perplexed, but not intimidated. He, 
immediately arranged his infantry in the form 
of a column, and placed one part of his cavalry 
in front, to break the ranks of the enemy, and 
the rest in the rear to prevent them from uniting 
In this order they entered the valley. Tlie con- 
flict was long and obstinate, the Mexicans were 
cut down by thousands ; but, when forced to 
retire by the superior skill of the Spaniards, they 
again fearlessly returned to the cliarge. 

18. Cortez, at the head of his cavalry, carried 
death and consternation wherever he directed 
his course ; at length he grew uneasy, lest the, 
coundess number of his enemies, might finally 

Questions.— IC. Where did tlie Spaniards return? How did the 
general appear? How was he borne ? 17. At this, what is said of 
Cortez ? Describe the conflict? 18. What did Cortez do. 



CoNauEST OF Mexico. 85 

tsxhaust the strength of his little army. It had 
Deen said, that the fale of the battle, was con- 
JBidered by the Mexican?, to depend on the loss 
lor preservation of the imperial banner. Cortez, 
Itherefore, determined to decide the doubtful con- 
•'lest, by seizincr or destroying the sacred standard. 
^Accompanied by several of his bravest officers, 
(he forced his way through his enemies, and in 
i»a few moments reached the place where the 
Hmnner was elevated, attacked the Mexican 
(general who carried it, and with a single stroke 
of his mace, brought him to the ground. 
" 19. The loss of the imperial standard decided 
the conflict; the Mexicans immediately threw 
down their arms, and fled precipitately to the 
woods and mountains. After this victory, the 
Spaniards pursued their march to the city of 
Tlascala, without meeting with any resistance. 
Cortez remained at this city for some time, m 
order that his men might recover from the fatigues 
of die labors which they had undergone. In the. 
meantime, having been reinforced by several 
hundred Spaniards, he marched back to iez- 
cuco, resolved, if possible, to reduce the capital. 
2t) With immense labor, he had timber brought 
from a distance ; a number of vessels were built, 

~Z,^^S. What had boen said? What did he determine? 
w?atdidhedo? 19. Whatdecided the conflict? After this vic- 
~at dtd the Bpaaiards do? la the meantime what did Cor- 
te/resol ve ? 20. With immense labor what was done ? 

8 



°" America. 

and launched on (he lake around (he ci(y. Fori 
several weeks, (he ci(y was furiously assauJ(ed 
by (he Spaniards ; but they were vigorously re- 
pulsed by (he Mexicans. 

At length, (he valor of (he Spaniards prevail- 
ed ; (he city was (aken, and (he emperor Gua(i.4i 
mozen himself, in a((empiing (o escape, fell into \ 
the hands of (he captors. 

21. The Spaniards were greally disappointed, 
m (he amount of gold and silver, which (hey 
expected (o find in (he ci(y. In order, (herefore, 
to discover (he hidden (reasures, (hey put the- 
monarch and his chief ministers to the mos( cruel 
tor(ures. They placed (hem upon an ins(rumen(, 
called (he rack. The prince endured his suffer- 
mgs without uttering a word of complaint, and. 
hearing one of his ministers, giving certain signs 
of impatience, he turned to him with a look of 
compassion, and said: '^And, myself, am I on 
a bed of roses?" 

22. Cortez, arriving at this moment, was 
greatly moved by the sufferings of Guatimozen, 
and immediately ordered him to be set at liberty • 
but the unhappy monarcli was shortly afterwards 
put to death, on a charge of treason and conspi- 
racy. It was in this manner, that the great ' 

QUESTIONS.-20. What is said of the eitv' AtlPTi,.f>, »i,of t, 
pened . 21 What is said of the Spaniart^ To JSove the tr:^ 
sure, what did they do 1 What did the prince say. JfwhVt dM 
Cortez order? When was Mexico overthrown ? ^- ^^^^«^d^d 



Conquest of Mexico. 87 

I empire of Mexico was overlhrown, and reduced 
to a Spanish province, in the year 1523, about 

II four years after the first landing of Cortez. 

' 23. Mexico, at the time of its discovery, was 
one of the most delightful countries of North 
America. Fruit and fragrant flowers spontane- 
ously abounded ; groves of lemon and orange 
trees might be seen extending for miles ; and the 
whole face of nature, was covered with luxuriant 
vegetation. The forests were thronged with 
birds of various plumage, and the very air was 
filled with the sweet fragrance, which arose from 
the groves and meadows. The country, more- 
over, abounded with mines of gold and silver. 

24. Mexico remained a Spanish province, 
until the year 1808, when the people rebelled 
against the power of Spain, and after a struggle 
of twelve years, established their independence, 
and the country was declared a republic. In 
1823, a new constitution was formed, similar to 
that of the United States. 



Questions.— 23. What is said of Mexico? Fruit, &c.? The 
forest ? 24. What took place in 1808 ? In 1823 ? 



88 America. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Discovery and Conquest of Peru, by 
Francis Pizarro. 

1. Shortly after (he conquest of Mexico, we 
find that a similar expedition was nndertakea 
against the empire of Peru, in South America, 
by Francis Pizarro. Pizarro sailed from Pana- 
ma in the year 1525, and explored the shores of 
the Pacific ocean ; and, in 1531, he ohtained a 
commission as governor of the country, and a 
small force to enable him to subdue it. He con- 
tinued his adventures and advanced into the very 
heart of Peru, then a rich and powerful empire. 

2. The country at that time was divided into 
two hostile parties, led by the two sons of the 
iate monarch, who disputed the succession to the 
(hrone. The younger was finally successful, 
having defeated his brother ,♦ and having taken 
him prisoner, he ordered him to be put to death. 
Beth princes had previously endeavored to gain 
the assistance of the Spaniards, and Pizarro, now 
pretending to be a friend to the successful com- 
petitor, marched to meet him, but suddenly at- 

QuESTiONS.— 1. After the conquest of Mexico, what was under- 
taken ? Wliat did he obtain? Where did he advance? 2. Wliat 
is said of tlie country? Who was .successful? What had both 
endeavored to gain ? What did Pizarro do ? 



Discovery and Conquest op Peru. 89 

tacked his army, and having slain a great many 
of his followers, took the monarch prisoner. 

3. The unfortunate prince made every con- 
cession to obtain his liberty. He even agreed to 
fill the room, in which he was confined, measur- 
ing twenty-two feet in length, and seventeen in 
breadth, with vessels of gold and silver. He did 
not, however, obtain his release, and was finally 
put to death. The Peruvian monarchy being 
thus overthrown, and reduced to a Spanish pro- 
vince, the most violent contentions began to pre- 
vail among the conquerors. Almagro, the rival 
of Pizarro, was condemned and executed, and 
Pizarro in turn, ended his eventful life by assas- 
sination. 

Questions.— 3. What did he agree to do? Did he obtain his 
liberty? After this what prevailed ? What was the end of Alma- 
gro and Pizarro ? 



8* 



AMERICAJN" COLONIES. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

Settlement of Virginia, 

1. About the year 1584, a company was form- 
ed in England, under the patronage of Sir Whiter 
Raleigh, for the purpose of mailing a settlement 
in America. Raleigh, having obtained a grant 
of land from Queen Ehzabeth, arrived in the 
New World, entered Pamhco Sound, and took 
possession of the country in the name of the 
crown of England. On his return, the account 
he gave of the fertility of the country, so pleased 
Ehzabeth, that she bestowed on it the name of 
Virginia. 

2. Shortly after this, Sir Walter Raleigh sent 
over to Virginia several small vessels, under the 
command of Richard Granville, carrying one 
hundred and eighty adventurers, who landed on 
the isle of Roanoke. But the colonists, deluded 
with the prospect of finding mines of gold and 
silver, neglected the cultivation of (he soil ; and, 

Questions. — 1. What took place in ISSi ? What is said of Raleigh ? 
On his return, what did he give? 2. After this what did Raleigh 
do? What is said of the colonists ? 

90 



Settlement of Virginia. 91 

in consequence of this, they were reduced to the 
utmost distress by famine ; many of them re- 
turned to England, while others perished by 
sickness, or fell by the hands of the natives. 

3. The ill success of the first adventurers, 
naturally weakened the spirit of enterprise, and 
for a season, withdrew the attention of olhers, 
from attempting settlements in the New World. 
In the year 1607, however, another body of one 
hundred and eight adventurers, under the patron- 
age of the London Company, sailed for the coast 
of Virginia. After a long and dangerous voyage, 
they arrived at the mouth of the Chesapeake 
bay, and sailed up a beautiful stream, to which 
they gave the name of James River. They 
finally landed on a small island in this river, and 
commenced a settlement, and laid the founda- 
tion of a village, to which, in honorof their king, 
they gave the name of Jamestown. 

4. The ruins of this village are still visible. A 
few traces of decayed houses, the mouldering 
ruins of a fortification, and an ancient church- 
yard, mark the spots where the first permanent 
settlement was made upon the shores of North 
America. 

5. Who can describe the sentiments of the 

Questions. — 2. What was the consequence? What did many do? 

3. What is said of the ill success ? In 1607, what took place ? 

r Where did they arrive? Where did they land? What town did 

they commence? 4, What is said of the ruins of this village? 

5. What is said of this vast country? 



92 



American Colonies. 



traveller, when he visits the site of this ancient 
town? This vast country, stretching from the 
Atlantic to the Pacific ocean, now containing a 
population of twenty miihons of inhabitants, 
was then an extensive wilderness, the vast hunt- 
ing-grounds of the Indians. They alone dwelt 
in its valleys, and held undisputed sway over its 
hills and its mountains, its lakes and its rivers. 
Extensive cities, towns, and villages are now 
spread over the plains, where once the humble 
wigwams of the Indians stood. 

6. The government of this colony, was framed | 
by the London Company, and was administered 
by a council of seven persons, with a president 
chosen from their own number. The condition 
of the colony, at first, was far from being prosper- 
ous. The provisions, which they had brought 
with them, were soon exhausted ; and as they 
had planted nothing, they were reduced to the 
utmost distress for the want of food ; and to add 
new misfortunes to those which surrounded them, 
sickness broke out among them, and in the course 
of four months, fifty of their number died. 

7. The colony, however, was saved from 
final ruin, through the energy of one of their 
number. Captain John Smith. The life of this 

QuESTiONS.-o What did they hold ? What is said of .ities, &c. -> 
6 Wliere was the government of the colony framed ? What was 
the condition of the colony? To what were they reduced. G. What 
brokeout? 7. How was the colony saved ? What is said of his life* 



Settlement of Virginia. 93 

extraordinary man is truly wonderful. Being of 
a romantic turn of mind, he left England at the* 
age of fifteen, and travelled through Spain, 
France and Germany. He entered the army of 
the emperor of Austria, and at length obtained 
the command of a body of cavalry. It was not 
long before Smith signalized himself by deeds of 
valor. 

8. On one occasion, he challenged a Turk to 
single combat, and the challenge was immedi- 
ately accepted. They mounted tlieir horses, and 
met in the open plain. A fierce contest ensued, 
in which the Turk was slain. Smith challenged 
a second ; and the second shared the same fate 
as the first. A third accepted the challenge, 
and he, too, fell beneath the deadly lance of 
Smith. 

9. He fought many battles against the Turks, 
but being at length wounded, he was taken pri- 
soner, and sent as a slave to Constantinople. 
He finally, obtained his liberty through the kind- 
ness of a Turkish lady, and returned to England, 
and, shortly afterwards, joined an expedition, 
which was about to sail to the New World. 

10. He often went into the interior, to obtain 

Questions. — 7. Where did he travel? 8. On one occasion, what 
did he do ? What was the result of the first contest ? The sec- 
ond? The third? 9. What did he fight? How did he obtain 
his liberty? What did he afterwards do? 10. Where did he 
often go ? 



94 American Colonies. 

provisions and explore the country. In one of 
these expeditions, he was attacked by a party of 
Indians, and all his companions were killed. 
Seizing one of the Indians, he held him as a 
shield between himself and the enem}'^, and in 
this manner he retreated; but being unacquaint- 
ed with the country, he sank in a swamp, and 
was taken prisoner. 

11 . Smith now preserved his life, by display- . 
ing to the savages a pocket compass, and amused 
and astonished them by explaining its powers. 
They led him in triumph to Powhattan, their 
king. A council was held, and it was decreed 
that he should be put to death, as a man, whose 
valor and genius were dangerous to the Indians. 

12. He was accordingly led forth to execution, 
and Powhattan himself resolved to be his execu- 
tioner. His head was placed upon a stone, but 
just as the king was in the act of raising the fatal 
club to dispatch his victim. Pocahontas, his youth- 
ful daughter, rushed forward and threw herself 
at the feet of her father, and by her tears and en- 
treaties, besought him to spare the life of Smith. 
Powhattan gazed for a moment with astonish- 
ment upon his daughter ; her prayers touched 
his heart, his club fell harmlessly to the ground ; 

Questions. — 10. What happened? How did he retreat? How 
was he taken ? 11. How did he preserve his life ? Where was he 
led? What was decreed? 12. Where was he led? How was hia 
life saved ? What is said of Powhattan ? 



Settlement of Virginia. 95 

he gave Smith his liberty, and permitted him to 
return to Jamestown. 

13. On his return, Smith found the colony in 
the greatest distress. Only forty of the emi- 
grants were living, and they had become so 
much disheartened, that they were about to re- 
turn to England. Smith, however, being made 
president of the council, by his eners^y and activ- 
ity, soon restored order and prosperity to the 
colony. He passed a decree, that thos^ who 
would not work, shoidd have nothing to eat ; 
and by this means, he soon rendered them all 
industrious. 

14. In 1609, Powhattan had concerted mea- 
sures for the destruction of the colony ; but Po- 
cahontas, who had always been friendly to the 
English, learning the designs of her father, has- 
tened to Jamestown, on a dark, stormy night, 
and disclosed the plot to Smith. This timely 
notice saved the colon}'' from destruction. Poca- 
hontas during another visit to Jamestown, was 
there detained with a hope that Powhattan, while 
his daughter was in the hands of the English, 
would abstain from hostilities. 

15. But the noble hearted king, though he 
loved his daughter, hated treachery and deceit. 



Questions. — 13. On his return, how did he find the colony ? Be- 
ing made president, what did he do ? 14. In 1609, what took place ? 
What did Pocahontas do ? What happened to Poeanontas, during 
another visit to Jamestown ? 15. What is said of the king ? 



96 American Colonies. 

f 

He indignantly refused to listen to any terms of 
peace, until his daughter was restored. Poca- 
hontas was deeply interesting in her deportment ; 
simple, innocent and beautiful. During her 
stay at Jamestown, she became attached to a 
young man of respectable parentage, by the 
name of John Rolfe, and, with the consent of 
her father, they were married. Afier the cele- 
bration of the nuptials, Rolfe and the prin- 
cess 'sailed for England, where she was in- 
structed in the Christian religion, and pub- 
licly baptized. She died shortly afterwards at 
Gravesend, in the twenty-second year of her 
age. 

16. About this time, Captain Smith received 
a severe wound from an explosion of gun-pow- 
der, and in consequence of this accident, he was 
obliged to return to England for medical aid. 
His absence was a severe loss to the colony. 
They wasted their provisions, and were soon 
reduced to the utmost distress by famine. So 
dreadful were its effects, that, in the course of a 
few months, their number Wcis reduced from five 
hundred to sixty. They were relieved, how- 
ever, by the timely arrival of Lord Delaware 
with provisions and one hundred and fifty emi- 

QuESTiONS. — 15. What did he refuse? What is said of Pocahon- 
tas ? To wliom was she married ? Where did she sail ? In what 
was she instructed ? Where did slie die ? IG. Wliat happened 
about this time ? What is said of his absence ? What did they 
waste ? How were they relieved ? 



Settlement of Virginia. 97 

grants. From this period the colony began to 
prosper. 

17. The year 1620 is rendered memorable 
by the introduction of negro slavery into Ame- 
rica. A Dutch vessel, from the coast of Gui- 
nea, arrived at Jamestown, having on board 
twenty negroes, who were purcliased by the 
planters. 

18. Tlie colony had enjoyed for some time 
a great degree of prosperity ; it was, however, 
doomed to experience a stroke, that nearly proved 
fatal to its existence. On the twenty-second of 
March, during the year 1623, the Indians fell 
upon the colonists while they were engaged at 
work, and in one fatal hour, killed three hun- 
dred and forty-seven of their number. 

19. We are obliged, in this small work, to 
omit many things in the history of Virginia, ihat 
would be interesting to our young readers. Some- 
times we find it prosperous, and at other times, 
we behold it contending with the storms of adver- 
sity. When Cromwell usurped ihe government 
of England, the colony was forced to submit to 
his authority. At the restoration of Charle 11, it 
again declared its allegiance to the king. Again 
we find it distracted with civil war, by Bacon's 

Questions. — 17. For what is the year 1020 memorable? How 
many were on board? 18. What is said of the colonj^? On 
the 22d of March what took place? How many were killed? 
19. What happenedduring the government of Cromwell? Again 
what do we find ? 

9 



9^ American Colonies. 

rebellion, during which Jamestown was burnt lo 
the ground. Bacon was finally defeated and 
slain, and peace and prosperity were again re- 
stored to the colon3^ 



CHAPTER XV. 
The Settlement of New York. 

1. The territory now forming the State of 
New York was first settled by the Dutch. As 
early as the year 1609, Henry Hudson, an Eng- 
lishman, then in the service of (he East India 
Company of Holland, sailed to (he New VYorld 
in search of a passage to India. He touched at 
Long Island, and sailed up a beautiful stream, 
which, from his own name, he called the Hud- 
son river. The object of his voyage proving 
unsuccessful, he returned to Europe. 

2. Hudson, shortly after his return, sailed on 
another voyage, in (he employment of a com- 
pany of English merchants, with a view to dis- 
cover a western passage to India. He sailed 
north to the Arctic ocean, but in a mutiny of his 
crew, he and his youthful son, were thrown into 

QUESTI0XS.-19. What was the fate of Bacon? 1. By whom was 
New -iork settled? In 1609, what took place? Where did he 
touch ? 2. What did Hudson do, after his return ? Where did he 
sail •>. What was h is fate ? 



Settlement of New York. 99 

a small boat, and left to perish. He was never 
heard of afterwards. 

8. About the year 1613, a company of Dutch 
adventurers began a settlement on the banks of 
the Hudson river. They built a fort near the 
present site of Albany, called Fort Orange, and 
another with some few trading houses, on Man- 
hattan island, where the city of New York now 
stands. They styled the latter settlement New 
Amsterdam, while the whole territory was called 
New Netherlands. 

4. The State of Delaware was first visited by 
a colony of Danes, who commenced a settle- 
ment near the spot were Wilmington now stands, 
and called the country New Sweden. The 
Dutch settlers of New Netherlands always regard- 
ed their Danish neighbors wilh an eye of jeal- 
ousy ; they claimed the territory of Delaware 
and sought every opportunity of assertmg their 
rights. 

5. At this time the settlement of New Nether- 
lands was governed by Peter Stuyvesant, of 
whom historians relate many curious incidents. 
The Swedes, very imprudently, took possession 
of a fort built by the Dutch, and made prisoners 
of the garrison. This conduct gave Stuyvesant 

Questions. — 3. About the year 1613, what was done? What did 
they build ? What did they style the latter settlement? 4. What 
is said of Delaware ? How did the Dutch settlers regard them? 
What did they claim ? 5. Who was governor of New Netherlands ? 
What did the Swedes? 



100 American Colonies. 

a plausible excuse for invading the territory of 
New Sweden. He immediately collected an 
army, and marched against the Swedes, and 
having defeated them in several battles, subdued 
the settlement, and united it to New Nether- 
lands. 

6. We have seen that the first settlements in 
New York were made by the Dutch ; it remains 
to be shown how that colony fell into the hands 
of the English. Charles li., of England, after 
his restoration to the throne of his father, seemed 
to be anxious for some pretext on which to rest 
a dispute with Holland. Among other things, 
he claimed the colony, possessed by that country 
in America, and conveyed it to his brother, the 
Duke of York, with power to subdue it. 

7. The Duke immediately sent three ships, 
under the command of Richard Nichols, to re- 
duce the territory. Nichols arrived in the har- 
bor of New Amsterdam, and demanded a sur- 
render of the place. Stuyvesant, the governor, 
after some opposition, was compelled to yield to 
the English ; and the whole territory thus be- 
came subject to the British crown, and the settle- 
ment, in honor of the Duke, was called New 
York. 



Questions.— 5. What did Stuj'vesant do ? G. What have we .seen, 
&c. ? After the restoration of Charles what did lie do ' What did 
he claim? To whom did he convey it? 7. What did the Duke 
do ? What did Nichols do? What followed? Why was it called 
New York ? 



Settlement op New York. 101 

8. About this time, the Americaa seas were 
greatly infested with pirates. These men often 
attacked ships on the ocean, plundered them, 
murdered the crew, and frequently burned or 
sunk the vessels. The governor of New York 
received orders from England to expel, if possi- 
ble, these desperate men from the American 
coast. Accordingly, a vessel was fitted out for 
this purpose, and placed under the command of 
a Robert Kidd. But Kidd, when he got upon 
the high seas, proved unfaithful to his trust, and 
resolved to become a pirate himself. He made 
known his design to his men, who readily con- 
sented to it. 

9. For several years the name of Kidd was a 
terror to all who sailed near the Atlantic coast, 
and even on the Indian ocean. He plundered 
many vessels, and obtained a great quantity of 
gold and silver. At length, he landed on the 
Americen coast, burned his vessel, and proceed- 
ed to Boston. Being discovered in that city, he 
was immediately seized, and sent to England, 
where he was tried and condemned ; he atoned 
for his crimes upon the scaffold. 

Questions. — 8. "What is said of the American seas? What did 
these men do? What orders did the governor receive? Under 
whom was the vessel placed? What did Kidd do? 9. For seve- 
ral years what followed ? Where did lie land ? What was his end ? 



102 American Colonies. 

CHAPTER XVI. 

The Settlement of Massachusetts. I 

1. We have seen in the history of Virginia, 
that Captain Smith, so celebrated in that colony, 
was obUged to return to Enghmd in consequence 
of fiaving received a severe wound from the ex- 
plosion of gunpowder. As soon as he recovered, 
he again sailed on an expedition to the New 
World. He touched at the mouth of the Ken- 
nebec river, and examined the coast as far as 
Cape Cod ; and, on his return to Europe, he 
prepared a map of the country, to which he gave 
the name of Neio England. 

2. In the early part of the year 1 620, a patent 
was granted by King James I., of England, to 
several persons, forming the Council of Ply- 
mouth, for the purpose of making a settlement 
in New England. During the same year in 
which the patent was obtained, the first perma- 
nent settlement was commenced in New Ensf- 
land, at Plymouth, by a body of persons called 
Purilans. 

3. The Pmitans, who had suffered greatly 
in England on account of their religion, re- 



QuESiioNS.— 1. What have we seen? What did he again do? 
Where did he touch and examine? Wiiat did lie call the coun- 
try? 2. In IGi^O, what took place? In the same year, what was 
commenced? By whom? 3. Where hud the Puritans removed? 



Settlement of Massachusetts. 103 

moved to Holland ; but not finding their situa- 
tion there agreeable, they resolved to seek an 
asylum from oppression , by removing to llie wilds 
of America. On the morning of (he 22i\ of July, 
1620, Mr. Robison, their minister, kneeling in 
prayer on the sea shore at Del f haven, conse- 
crated the embarkation of the pilgrims. 

4. The vessel in which they sailed was called 
the Mayflower. They intended to land near the 
Hudson river, but they were carried much far- 
ther to the north, and the first land they came 
in sight of, was the bleak shores of Cape Cod. 
After some days spent in searching for a suitable 
place to land, the Mayflower was safely moored 
in a beautiful harbor, to which they gave the 
name of Plymouth. 

5. Although the pilgrims had landed, their 
sufferings and distress were only about to com- 
mence. If we look at their condition, how dreary 
is the prospect. After a long and toilsome voy- 
age, they found themselves cast upon an un- 
known and hostile coast. On the one side, lay 
a vast wilderness covered with ice and snow, and 
on the other, the broad Atlantic separated them 
from home, and kindred, and native clime. 
The}^ were exposed to all the rigors of a New 

Questions,— 3. What did they resolve ? In July, 1020, what took 
place? 4. What was the vessel called? Where did they intend to 
land? After some days, where was the Mayflower moored? 
5. What is said of the pilgrims? What was on the one side? 
On the other? 



104 American Colonies. 

England winter, without a roof to shelter them 
from the storm. Their supply of provisions was 
limited, and to fill the measure of their calami- 
lies, they were visited by a distressing sickness. 

6. With a desire of conforming to the simpli- 
city of the early Christians, the pilgrims at first 
held all their property in common. This was 
one cause of the scarcity of provisions, that for 
sometime prevailed in the colony. But in the 
spring of the year 1623, a piece of ground was 
allowed to each family for its own cultivation, 
and after the harvest of that year, no general 
want of provisions was experienced. 

7. In the spring of 1621, they received a visit 
from Massasoit, the most powerful Indian chief 
of that region, and from whom the State of Mas- 
sachusetts derives its name. He gave them a 
cordial welcome, and entered into a league of 
friendship with them, which was strictly observed 
for more than fifty years. 

8. It migiit be supposed that men, who had 
bled under the lash of persecution for their reli- 
gious opinions, would have learned to respect 
these opinions in others. But this was far from 
being the case. While we commend the noble 
spirit, which enabled them to bid adieu to the 

Questions, — 5. What is said of their provisions, &c.? 6. With a 
desire to conform, &e., what did they do? What is said of this ? 
In 1623, what was allowed? 7. In 1G21, what did they receive? 
What did he give them, &c. ? 8. What might be expected ? While 
we commend, &c., wliat have we to regret ? 



Settlement New Hampshire, etc. 105 

land of their fathers, and to forsake (he scenes of 
early childhood, that they might enjoy the free 
exercise of their religion, we cannot but look 
with feelings of (he deepest regret, at (he spirit 
of intolerance, which they exercised among them- 
selves. 

9. Many of the colonists retained a high vene- 
ratio«4 for (he Church of England, and refused 
to comply with the religious regula(ions of the 
Puritans. Kndico(t, the governor, called before 
him the principal offenders, and sentenced them 
to banishment ; they were accordingly sent home, 
by the first vessel returning to England. 



CHAPTER XYH. 



Settlement of New Hampshire, Connec- 
ticut AND Rhode Island. 

1. The colonial history of New Hampshire is 
intimately connected with that of Massachusetts. 
In the spring of 1623, the first setdement in (his 
S(ate, was made at Dover and Portsmou(h,by a 
company of persons sent out under the patronage 
of Ferdinando Gorges and John Mason. In the 
j^ear 1641, this settlement was united to Massa- 

QuESTiONS. — 9. AVhat is said of many of the colonists ? What 
did Endicott do? What is said of the history of New Hamp- 
shire ? In 1623, what took place ? And in ICil ? 



106 American Colonies. 

chusetts, and remained a part of that colony until 
1678, when it again obtained a separate govern- 
ment. i\ 

2. In the year 1635, the settlement of Con-" 
necticut was commeneed by a few families from 
Massachusetts, under the direction of their favo- 
rite minister, the Rev. Thomas Hooker. They 
set out from Cambridge, and after a fatig^uing 
march through the wilderness, they arrived on 
the west side of the Connecticut river, and laid 
the foundation of Hartford. The colonists were 
at first greatly harassed by a tribe of warlike 
Indians called the Pequods. The Pequods 
were finally defeated with immense slaughter, 
on the banks of the Mystic river, and their camp 
destroyed ; after this, the settlement enjoyed 
peace and prosperity, which continued for many 
years. 

3. The setdement of Rhode Island was com- 
menced by Roger Williams. Williams was the 
pastor of a church at Salem, in Massachusetts, 
from which he w^as banished by the governor, 
for holding religious opinions contrary to those 
of the Puritans. He went forth in the middle 
of winter, when the ground was covered with a 
deep snow, and with a few companions, com- 

QuEsTiONS.— 2. In 1U35, what was commenced ? Where did they 
set out from? Bj' whom were they harrassed? What is said of 
the Pequods? 3. By whom was this setttlement commenced? 
What is said of Williams ? When did he go forth ? 



Settlement New Hampshire, etc. 107 

commenced a settlement on the spot where the 
citv of Providence now stands. 

4. Not long after this, Mr. Coddington, with 
one hundred and seventy-six others, having been 
also banished from Massachusetts, for holding 
religious opinions deemed erroneous by the colo- 
nial establishment, followed Roger Williams, and 
commenced a settlement on a fertile island in 
Narraganset bay, to which they gave the name 
of Rhode Island. The whole settlement was 
afterwards called by this name. 

5. Roger Williams was a man of liberal and 
generous principles. By the charter, which he 
obtained from England for the government of 
his colony, it was ordered, that none should be 
molested for any difference of opinion in matters 
of religion. It would have been, however, 
much to the credit of those who shared with him 
the administration of the government, if ihey 
had been more liberal in their views ; for, the 
ver}- first assembly convened under the authority 
of that charter, excluded the Roman Catholics 
from voting at elections, and from every office in 
the government. 

Questions. — 3. Where did he commence a settlement? 4. After 
this what took place ? Where did he commence a settlement? 
5. What is said of Williams ? By the charter what was ordered ? 
At the first assembly who were excluded? 



108 American Colonies. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 
The Settlement of Maryland. 

1. The first settlement in Maryland was com- 
menced, under the patronage of Sir George Cal- 
vert, whose title was that of Lord Baltimore. 
Calvert was distinguished as a statesman, and 
had held, for sometime, the office of secretary of 
state, in the reign of James I. of England. He 
was a Roman Catholic ; hence the intolerance 
and persecution exercised against the Catholics 
of England at that period, naturally affected his 
generous and benevolent heart. 

2. With a view of forming in America an 
asylum for himself and his persecuted brethren, 
he sailed to Virginia ; but not finding a welcome 
there, on account of his religion, he fixed his 
attention upon the territory beyond the Potomac, 
and finding it unoccupied, he immediately re- 
turned to England, and obtained of Charles I., a 
grant of the land. From Henrietta Maria, the 
settlement was called Maryland. 

3. Sir George Calvert died, before the grant 
of the territory was made out, but the right was 
transferred to his eldest son, Cecil Calvert, who 

Questions.— 1. By whom was this settlement commenced ? What 
is said of Calvert ? What was he, &c. ? 2. With a view of form- 
ing, &c., what did he do? Where did he lix his attention ? 
3. What happened before th« patent was made out ? Who inher- 
ited liis titles ? 



Settlement of Maryland. 109 

inherited the titles of his father. Preparations 
were immediately made for the settlement of the 
colony. On the 22d of November, in the year 
1633, about two hundred emigrants set sail from 
the Isle of Wight, in two small vessels, the Ark 
and the Dove, and after a tedious voyage, arrived 
in the following year, on the shores of the Chesa- 
peake. 

4. As soon as they landed, they erected a 
cross, and returned solemn thanks to God, who 
had guided their vessels safely through the many 
dangers of the ocean, and had conducted their 
voyage to so happy an issue ; they then took 
possession of the country in the name of their 
sovereign. They treated the Indians with the 
greatest kindness and humanity; they paid them 
for the land, and then commenced a settlement 
on the Potomac river at an Indian village, which 
they purchased from the natives, and to which 
they gave the name of Saint Mary's. 

5. The most beautiful feature in the history 
of tliis colonj^jis that of the free toleration, which 
it granted to the professors of every religious de- 
nomination. If a stranger entered the colony, 
no questions were asked about his religion ; if 
he was a Christian, he was welcomed, and per- 



QuESTiONS — 3. In 1633, what took place ? 4. After landing, what 
did they? How did they treat the Indians? Where did they 
commence a settlement? 5. What is the most beautiful feature 
in the hisiorv of this colony ? If a stranger entered, what is said ? 

10 



110 American Colonies. 

milted to worship God according to the dictates 
of his own conscience. Maryland was, more- 
over, an asylum from oppression, and merited 
the name of the land of the sanctuary. 

6. While a misguided zeal in matters of reli- 
gion, had enkindled the flame of persecution in 
most of the other colonies, the Catholics of Mary- 
land extended their arms and invited the victims 
of intolerance from every clime to come and live 
among them. The silent prayer of the Friend, 
the chant of the Puritan, and the hosannas of the 
Catholic, were wafted to heaven on the breeze 
that arose from the peaceful shores of the Chesa- 
peake. 

7. Even religious controversy and sectarian 
strife, so destructive to peace and unity, were 
banished from the colony and, whoever called 
his neighbor, by way of reproach, a heretic, idol- 
ater, Brownist, Puritan, Calvanist, Papist, or the 
like, was subject to a fine of ten shillings, one 
half to be paid to the party insulted. 

8. The tranquility of the colony, was, for 
sometime, interrupted by the intrigues of a man 
by the name of Clayborne, who finally compelled 
Lord Baltimore to retire from the settlement. 
One of the first acts of those who succeeded, 

Questions. — 5. What was Maryland moreover? 6. While mis- 
guided zeal, <&c., had-enkindledthe flame of persecution, what did 
the Catholics of Marj'land do? What is said of the prayer of the 
Friend, &c.? 7. What is said of religious contention ? 8. What is 
said of the tranquility of the colony? What was one of the first acts 



Settlement of Pennsylvania. Ill 

was to abolish religious toleration ; and thus the 
Catholics saw themselves deprived of the exer- 
cise of their religion, within the limits of the very 
colony in which they had labored to establish 
free toleration ; and that too, by those to whom 
their benevolence had granted an asylum and a 
home. After several years of disorder, the autho- 
rity of the proprietor was again restored, and the 
province began to resume its former prosperity. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

The Settlement op Pennsylvania. 

1. In the year 1681, the settlement of Penn- 
sylvania was commenced under the direction of 
the celebrated William Penn, from whom the 
State takes its name. In the early part of his 
life, Penn embraced the tenets of the Quakers, 
or Friends, and shared largely in the persecution 
carried on against them in England. Roused, 
at length, by the intolerant spirit of his country- 
men at home, he resolved to seek an asylum in 
the New World, from the oppression of the old. 
Accordingly, he applied to Charles II., from 
whom he obtained a grant of a large tract of 

Questions, — S. What is said of the Catholics ? 1. When and by 
whom was this settlement commenced? What is said of Penn? 
What did he resolve and obtain? 



112 American Colonies. 

country, including the present Slate of Pennsyl- 
vania, in compensation for a debt due from the 
crown to his father. 

2. The first colony arrived in the country in 
1681, and commenced a settlement on the banks 
of the Delaware river. In the following year, 
Penn arrived in company with about two ihou- 
sand associates^, chiefly of the denomination of 
Friends or Quakers. Soon after his arrival Penn 
drew out the plan and laid the foundation of the 
present city of Philadelphia, or the city of '' Bro- 
therly Love." 

3. The first care of Penn was to gain the 
friendship of the Indians. He met a delegation 
of the various tribes under a large elm tree, and 
adchessed them as follows : ^^ We meet you on 
the broad pathway of good faith and good will ; 
no advantage shall be taken on either side, but 
all shall be openness and love." The rude chil- 
dren of the forest were moved by this friendly ad- 
dress and thus replied : ^^ We will live in love 
with William Penn, and his children, as long as 
(he sun and moon shall endure." He paid them 
for their lands, and entered into a treaty with 
them, which was strictly observed for a period of 
seventy years. 

Questions. — 2. When did the first colony arrive? In the follow- 
ing year ? Soon after his arrival, what did Penn do ? 3. What was 
his first care ? How did he address them? Hgwdid they reply? 
For what did he pay them ? 



Settlement op the Carolinas, etc. 113 

4. The government of this colony was estab- 
lished, on the most humane and liberal prin- 
ciples. Following the example of Lord Balti- 
more, he made civil and religious liberty the 
basis of all his institutions, and to these wise 
regulations may be attributed the rapid advance- 
ment of Pennsylvania in population, enterprise, 
and importance. Penn visited England several 
times, and at length died at London, in 1718, at 
the advanced age of seventy-five years. 



CHAPTER XX. 



The Settlement op the Carolinas 
AND Georgia. 

1. The settlement of North and South Caro- 
lina, was commenced towards the middle of the 
seventeenth century by a company of persons 
from Virginia, who were suffering in that colony, 
on account of their religious opinions. Leaving 
their unfriendly neighbors in Yirginia, they pro- 
ceeded towards the south, and commenced a set- 
tlement near Albemarle Sound. 

2. Shortly after this, another company of ad- 
venturers from Massachusetts, settled near Cape 

Questions. — i. What is said of the government? Whose exam- 
ple did he follow? When and where did Penn die ? ]. By whom 
was this commenced? Where did they proceed? 2. After this 
what took place ? 

10* 



1T4 American Colonies. 

Fear. The proprietors invited emigration, by 
establishing a liberal government, and by offer- 
ing a portion of the land for the first five years 
at a half penny per acre. They afterwards ex- 
tended their settlements to the banks of Ashley 
and Cooper rivers, and laid the foundation of 
Charleston. In 1739, the title of the land was 
invested in the crown, after which the countr}^ 
was divided into North and South Carolina, 
and a royal governor appointed over each. — 
During the year ITOO, the growth of cotton was 
introduced into the Carolinas, and a few years 
later, that of rice. 

3. The last of the thirteen original States, that 
revolted against Great Britain, was Georgia. It 
derives its name from George the Second, at (hat 
time King of England. In the year 1732, a 
company of individuals under General Ogle- 
ihrope, arrived from England, and made the 
first settlement in this colony. They touched at 
Charleston, and after leaving (hat cily, they pro- 
ceeded to their destined territory, and laid the 
foundation of the present city of Savannah. 



Questions. — 2. What did the proprietors do? What did they 
extend? In 1739, what took place? Wlien was cotton introduced? 
3. Which was the hist of the States ? From whom does it derive 
its name ? In 1732, who arrived? What city did they found ? 



The Indian Wars. 115 

CHAPTER XXI. 
The Indian Wars. 

1. We will now proceed to give our young 
readers an account of the wars, carried on be- 
tween the colonists and their Indian neighbors. 
The cruehies practised by the savages during 
these wars, almost exceed beh"ef. Towns were 
attacked at midnight, and often in the midst of 
winter; the inhabitants were frequently murder- 
ed in their beds, or dragged from their homes 
into a miserable captivity. 

2. The Indians in the vicinity of Massachu- 
setts bay were few and peaceful, but those in the 
Connecticut and Rhode Island were numerous 
and warlike. Among these, the Narragansets 
and Pequods were the most formidable. The 
latter requested their neighbors to forget their 
mutual animosity, and unite against the com- 
mon enemy of their country; but the Narragan- 
sets, thinking this a fiivorable opportunity for 
destroying a powerful rival, made known their 
hostile intentions to the governor of Massachu- 
setts, and formed an alliance with the colonists 
against them. 

Questions. — 1. To what will we now proceed ? What is said of 
the cruelties ? Towns ? The inhabitants ? 2. What is said of the 
Indians in, &c. ? Which were the most powerful tribes? What 
did the latter request ? What did the Narragansets do ? 



116 The Indian Wars. 

3. The Pequods had pitched their camp near 
the head of Mystic river; but the colonists and 
their allies, under Captain Mason, having reach- 
ed the place iinperceived, attacked the camp 
and set it on fire. A dreadful carnage ensued. 
The Indians were asleep at the time^ and being 
roused by the discharge of the muskets, they 
rushed in consternation from their burning tene- 
ments. 

4. As they rushed forth, they were met by the 
swords of the enemy, and if they attempted to 
leap over the enclosure of the camp, they were 
received by a shower of balls. Many who w^ere 
afraid to venture out perished in the ilames ; 
while olhers, recoiling from the deadly weapons 
of the foe, rushed back into the burning element, 
and shared the fate of their companions. About 
six hundred of these poor Indians were slain on 
this occasion, and those that were taken prison- 
ers, were sold as slaves ; so that the whole tribe 
of the Pequods was entirely destroyed. 

5. In the year 1675, the peace, which had 
existed since the lime of the Pequod war, was 
inlerrupted, and the colonists found themselves 
involved in hostilities with Philip, King of the 
Wampanoags, whose principal residence was at 



Questions. — 3. Where had the Pequods pitched their camp? 
What did Captain Mason do ? What followed ? 4. How were they 
met ? What is said of many ? Of others ? How many were slain ? 
5. In 1675, what took place ? 



The Indian Wars. 117 

Mount Hope, in Rhode Island. Philip was a 

man of great courage, and warlike abilities. He 

ihad long viewed the settlements of the English 

'with an eye of jealousy; and believed, that, 

i unless the progress of the colonies w^as checked, 

I (he Indians would soon disappear from the land; 

that their beautiful rivers and lakes, their moun- 

I tains and valleys, which descended to them from 

their fathers, would in a few years cease to be 

their inheritance ; that all would pass into the 

I hands of the strangers. 

' 6. Accordingly he assembled his warriors, and 
I commenced a war of extermination against the 
colonists. Many and painful were the deeds of 
cruelly perpetrated during this war. On one 
occasion, as a party of eighty persons, were trav- 
elling from Deerfield to Hadley, they stopped 
by the way to gather grapes; while thus en- 
gaged, they were suddenly surrounded and at- 
tacked by the Indians, and only ten of their 
number escaped the fearful massacre that fol- 
lowed ! 

7. At Saco, Dover, and Exeter, in Maine, 
they committed dreadful outrages. Brookfield, 
in Massachusetts, was attacked, and all the houses 
in it were burnt, except one in which many of 

QoESTiONS.— 5. What is said of Philip ? What did he believe, &c. ? 
6. Accordingly what did he do? On oue occasion, what happen- 
, ed? What was their fate ? 7. What happened at Saco, &c. ? What 
is said of Brookfield 



118 The Indian Wars. 

the inhabitants had taken refuge. For two days 
the Indians assailed this house in vain ; at last they 
resolved to set it on fire; but just as the flames 
began to ascend, they were suddenly extinguish- 
ed by a heavy shower of rain. Shortly after this, 
assistance arrived from a neighboring town, and 
the inmates of the house were thus saved. 

S. After this, the war with Philip was carried 
on with various success. In the great battle, 
known by the name of the Swamp fight, two 
hundred and thirty of the colonists were killed, 
while one thousand Indians are said to have 
perished, and five hundred of their wigwams 
were reduced to ashes. At length, an end was 
put to these disasters by the death of Philip ; he 
was shot by one of his own men, who had joined 
a party of the English, under the famous Captain 
Benjamin Church. 

9. During the winter of 1690, a party of 
Indians made an attack upon the village of 
Schenectady, in New York. The foe, with 
noiseless step, approached the town at the hour 
of midnight. The inhabitants were asleep, and 
the stillness of death reigned over the place. At 
a given signal the war-whoop was sounded, in 
an instant the inhabitants, aroused from their 

Questions. — 7. At last what did they resolve ? How were the 
flames extinguished ? What arrived ? 8. After this what is said 
of the war? How many were killed in the battle of the Swamp 
fight? How was an end put to the war ? 9. In 1690, what happen- 
ed? What is said of the inhabitants ? 



The Indian Wars. 119 

slumbers, started from their beds, but were met 

i^t the door, and slauglilered by the savages 

I 10. The houses were set on fire, and in a few 

minules sixty of the inhabitants were killed, and 
jmany others made prisoners. A few attempted 
i to escape, but they were without clothing, and 
j the weather was extremely cold ; they, therefore, 
I endured incredible suffering, before they reached 

VL place of security. 

11. A few years after this, a party of Indians 
made an attack upon the town of Haverliill, in 
Massachusetts. Among the inhabitants of the 

itown, there was a Mr. Dunstan, who, at the 
time, was engaged in the field at work. Wheij 
the fierce cry of the savages reached his ears, he 
iinmediately hastened home to save his family. 

12. When he arrived at his dwelling, he saw 
the Indians approaching. Unfortimately, at the 
time, Mrs. Dunstan was sick, and unable to 
leave the house. In his fright and consterna- 
tion, Mr. Dunstan knew not what to do; he had 
seven children; he thought he might be able, at 
least, to save them ; whereas, if he stopped to 
protect his wife, it would be certain destruction 
to them all. 

(Questions. — 9. By whom were they met ? 10. What is said of the 
houses ? How many were killed ? What is said of those who 
attempted to escape ? 11. A few years after this, what took place ? 
Who was among the inhabitants? Whatdidhedo? 12. What is 
said of Mrs. Dunstan ? How many children had he ? What did 
he think ? 



120 The Indian Wars. 

13. Therefore, leaving Mrs. Dunslan, with an 
infant of a few weeks old, together with her 
nurse, he mounted his horse, and telling his chil- 
dren to run before him, the}^ all hastened off to 
a place of safety. Some of the savages pur- 
sued him for more than a mile, but having a 
gun he defended himself and kept them at a 
distance. 

14. No one can describe the trials and suffer- 
ings which Mrs. Dunslan was destined to en- 
dure. Although very ill, the Indians compelled 
her, with her nurse and little infant, to go with 
them to their habitations in the gloomy forest, 
which were more than one hundred miles from 
Haverhill. It was winter, and the journey had 
to be performed on foot through the wilderness. 

15. Finding that the infant occupied much of 
the mother's attention, the savages snatched it 
from her arms, and killed it before her eyes, by 
striking its head against a tree. Mrs. Dunstan 
and her nurse were now almost overcome by 
fatigue, but the Indians, without pity or remorse, 
hurried them along. It happened, on a certain 
occasion, that the two prisoners were left .in 
charge of a few Indians, who, being much 
fatigued, fell asleep. Mrs. Dunslan, and her 



Questions. — 13. Therefore, wliat did he do? What did some of 
the savages do? 14. What did the Indians do with Mrs. Dunstan ? 
How did they travel? 15. What did they do with the infant? 
What is said of Mrs. Dunstan and her nurse ? What happened ? 



The French War. 121 

companion, thouglit this a favorable opportunity 
for gaining their liberty. 

16. Accordingly, seizing a tomahawk, they 
killed these Indians, and thus made their escape.' 
After wandering for some time through the wil- 
derness, they arrived safely at Haverhill, and 
Mrs. Dunstan was again restored to her family 



CHAPTER XXII. 

The French War and Conquest 
OF Canada. 

1. At an early period after the discovery of 
America, the French had established colonies in 
different parts of the country. They had made 
settlements in Canada, extending from the river 
Saint Lawrence to Lake Ontario, and had estab- 
lished several forts and trading houses on the 
shores of that lake, to protect and promote their 
trade with the Indians. They had also com- 
menced a settlement on the Mississippi river, and 
laid the foundation of the present city of New 
Orleans ; and having ascended the river, they 
laid claim to the beautiful and fertile valley 
through which it flows. 

Questions.— 16. Accordingly, what did they do ? Where did they 
arrive? 1. What took place at aii early period? Where had they 
made settlements? Where had they also eommenced a settle- 
ment ? 

11 



122 The French War. 

2. The French had also built several trading 
houses and forts on the Ohio river, and were 
endeavoring to connect their northern and south- 
ern possessions, by a chain of forts extending 
from Lake Ontario to the Mississippi river. As 
the boundary between the French and Eng- 
lish colonies had never been settled, it gave rise 
to frequent disputes. It happened at this time, 
that a few individuals from Virginia, established 
themselves on the Ohio river, a short distance 
from the French settlements. As the French 
claimed this country, they immediately seized 
the settlers and sent them prisoners to Canada. 

3. This conduct on the part of the French, 
alarmed the English, and called forth the most 
decisive measures. Repeated complaints of vio- 
lence being made to the governor of Virginia, he 
resolved to send a messenger to the conunander 
of the French forces on the Ohio, to demand the 
cause of these hostile proceedings, and to insist 
that he should evacuate the country. The 
choice of a person to perform this arduous duty, 
fell upon George Washington, the future deliv- 
erer of his country, a youth at that time in the 
twenty-first year of his age. Thus early did 
Washington begin that public career which has 

Questions. — 2. "Where had the French built trading house.*, &c. ? 
What is said of the boundary ? What happened ? What did the 
French do ? 3. What is said of this conduct ? What is said of the 
governor ? On whom did the choice fall ? What is said of Wash 
ington ? 



The French War. 123 

endeared his memory to every American, and 
rendered his name illustrious in every land. 

4. Before proceeding further, we must give 
our young readers a short sketch of the early 
history of this illustrious man. George Wash- 
ington was born in Westmoreland county, Vir- 
ginia, on the 22d of February, in the year 1732. 
His father, whose name was Aiigustin, was a 
native of Virginia ; but his grandfather had emi- 
grated to this country, from England, in 1657. 
At an early age he was sent to a school, kept on 
his father's farm, and there finished his educa- 
tion at the age of fifteen, under the direction of 
a Mr. Williams. He was well acquainted with 
English Grammar, Arithmetic, Geography and 
Surveying ; but he was not a Greek, or Latin 
scholar. 

5. He was early distinguished for his great 
love of truth. It is related of him, that on one 
occasion, his father gave him a small hatchet, 
wilh which, in his youthful sport, he destroyed 
a very valuable young apple tree. His father, 
on seeing the injury done to the tree, with much 
displeasure^ enquired of the servants, who among 
them had destroyed the tree, but no one could 
give him any information. Then turning to 



Questions. — i. When and where was "Wa-shington born ? What 
is said of his father, &c. ? When was he sent to school ? With 
what was he acquainted? 5. For what was he early distinguish- 
ed ? What is related of bim ? 



124 The French War. 

his son, he said : •* George, do you know who 
destroyed that tree? " George ran to his father, 
and said : ^' Father, you know that 1 cannot tell 
a he ; I did it with my hatchet." From this 
beautiful example of the youthful Washington, 
let our young readers learn the value of Truth; 
let them learn to practice that lovely virtue, the 
brightest ^em in the character of youth. 

6. Washington having received a letter from 
the governor of Virginia, departed on his perilous 
journey to the French settlement, a distance of 
about four hundred miles, through a wilderness 
inhabited by hostile savages. On his way his 
horse failed, but he proceeded on foot with a 
gun in his hand, and a pack on his shoulders. 
On the twelfth of December, he arrived at the 
French settlement, delivered the letter to the 
commander, and by the middle of January, re- 
turned in safety with an answer to the governor 
of Virginia. 

7. The reply not proving satisfactory, the gov- 
ernor of Virginia resolved to organize a regiment 
to support the claims of Great Britain over the 
disputed territory. Mr. Frey was appointed 
Colonel of this regiment, and young Washing- 



QuESTioNS. — 5. "What did his father ask him ? What did George 
reply? From this example, what should we learn, &c. ? 6. What 
did Washington do? What was the distance? On the way what 
happened? When did he reaeh the French settlement ? 7. What 
did the governor resolve ? Who was appointed colonel ? 



The French War. 125 

ton Lieutenant Colonel, but on the death of 
Prey, which happened shortly after his appoint- 
ment, the command devolved on Washington. 
Without delay, Washington marched forward at 
the head of a small force, to drive the French 
from a fort called Fort Du Gluesne, which was 
situated at the junction of the Alleghany and 
Monongahela rivers, where Pittsburg now stands. 

8. Before he reached the fort, he was informed 
that the garrison had been reinforced, and that 
the French general at the head of nine hundred 
men was advancing against him. He therefore, 
thought it prudent to fall back to a fort which he 
had previously thrown up; but before he was 
able to complete his defence, he was attacked by 
the French, and after a brave resistance of seve- 
ral hours, he was compelled to yield on honora- 
ble terms of capitulation. 

9, In the spring of the year 1754, General 
Braddock was sent from Ireland, with a large 
force, to support the British claims in America. 
Shortly after his arrival in Virginia, he v/as join- 
ed by the colonial troops under Washington, and 
it was resolved to attack Fort Du duesne. Gen- 
eral Braddock was a brave man, but possessed 

Questions.— 7. On the death of Frey, what took place ? What did 
Washington do ? Where was tlie fort? 8. Of what was he inform- 
ed ? Wliat did he think prudent ? What was he compelled to 
do? 1). In 1754, what happened ? By what was he joined? What 
is said of Braddock ? 
1J# 



126 The French War. 

no experience in the mode of Indian warfare. 
Washinglon, who acted as his aid-de-camp, 
asked permission to go forward with the provin- 
cial troops, and scour the woods ; but Braddock 
rejected this prudent measure with contempt, say- 
ing, " that it was high time indeed to begin, if 
he had to learn the science of war from a young 
buckskin." 

10. He marched uncautiously forward, and 
when within a few miles of Fort Du Q,uesne, he 
fell into an ambuscade of French and Indians. 
The enemy, concealed behind rocks and trees, 
poured a heavy discharge of musketry upon the 
unprotected troops of Braddock ; the van was 
forced back upon the main body, and the whole 
army was thrown into disorder. A dreadful 
slaughter now ensued. Braddock did all that a 
brave general could do, but valor was unavail- 
ing. After an action of three hours, seven 
hundred of the English were left dead upon 
the field ; Braddock himself, after having three 
horses shot under him, fell mortally wounded. 
Washington had two horses shot under him, and 
four bullets passed through his coat ; yet he 
escaped unhurt. 

11. The next year the English were more suc- 

QcESTiONS.— 9. What did Washington ask ? What did Braddock 
reply ? 10. How did he niarcli ? What is said of tlie enemy ? Of 
the van? What ensued? What is said of Braddock ? What was 
his fate ? What is said of Washington ? 11. The next, what is 
said of the English ? 



The French War. 127 

cessful in their operations ; they reduced Crown 
Point, Louisbiirg, and several other places ; so 
that the city of Quebec was the only stronghold 
that remained in the hands of the French. 
(Quebec was strongly fortified by nature, and 
defended by a garrison of ten thousand men, 
under the command of General Montcalm. The 
arduous duty of reducing this city was intrusted 
to the heroic General Wolf. 

12. Wolf, having made an unsuccessful as- 
sault upon the city from the river, with incredi- 
ble labor led his army to an eminence on the 
north bank, called the Heights of Abraham. 
The enterprise was conducted with so much 
secrecy, that Montcalm had no intimation of it, 
until Wolf's army was arrayed on the heights 
above. A sanguinary battle ensued, in which 
the French were defeated with an immense loss, 
and General Montcalm was numbered among 
the slain. 

13. At the same time, the British had to lament 
the loss of the lieroic Wolf, who fell in the mo- 
ment of victory. This courageous man, having 
received a mortal wound, was carried to the rear 
of the army, where he caused himself to be 



Questions. — 11. "What places did they reduce? What is said^of 
Quebec? "What duty was given to Wolf ? 12. Where did Wolf lead 
his army ? What is said of the enterprise ? What ensued ? What 
was the fate of Montcalm ? 13. What had the British to lament ? 
Where was he carried ? 



128 The French War. 

raised, so that he might view the engagemen':. 
Faint with the loss of blood, he had reclined his 
head upon the arm of an officer, when he was 
aroused by these words : ^' They fly, they fly ."' 
^' Who fly?" exclaimed the dying general. Be- 
ing told that it was the enemy, he replied : '^ I 
die contented," and immediately expired. 

14. The last moments of Montcalm are equally 
remarkable. Being told that he could only sur- 
vive a few hours, he replied : '^ It is so much 
the better; I shall not then live to see the surren- 
der of Quebec." This battle was followed by 
the reduction of the city, and subsequently of all 
Canada ; so that of all the territories claimed by 
France in America, New Orleans, and a few 
plantations on the Mississippi, alone remained in 
her possession. A. D. 1763. 



QuBSTioxs — 13. Faint with the loss of blood, what is related of 
him? Being told, &c., what did he reply? 14. What is said of 
Montcalm? What did he reply? By vrliat was this battle fol- 
lowed ? 



riSriTED STATES. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

The Revolution. 

1. We have seen in the preceding chapters 
that this country was settled by persons from dif- 
ferent parts of Europe ; we read with feelings of 
emotion, the story of their trials, and their suffer- 
ings ; we saw them leaving their kindred, their 
home, and native clime, to seek an asylum from 
the iron grasp of tyranny, in a land beyond the 
waters of the broad Atlantic. 

2. They landed upon a bleak and hostile 
shore ; and in the trackless wilderness, surround- 
ed by Indians, they commenced their settle- 
ments. Difficulty after difficulty yielded to their 
patience, courage and perseverance ; the forest 
fell before them, and smiling fields of plenty 
sprung up, where for ages before, the Indian 
unmolested, had pursued the buffalo and the 
deer. 



Questions.— 1. What have we seen ? What have we read ? And 
seen? 2. Where did they land, &e.? What yielded to their 
patience ? What is said of the forest ? 

129 



^^0 United States. 

3. From a handful of adventurers, scattered 
along the sea-coast, they had grown up to a 
nation, and at the period of which we are about 
to speak, the colonies contained three milh'ons of 
inhabitants. The colonists, from their situation, 
had early learned the principles of self govern- 
ment, and had studied the maxims of civil and 
political h'berly, with more than ordinary care. 
They had learned too, the science of war and of 
arms. We have seen with what manly courage 
they defended the rights of their parent countryj 
we are now about to behold them in the deadly 
strife with the veteran host of England, in de- 
fence of their own rights, their liberties, and their 
homes. 

4. Up to this period the colonists cherished a 
warm affection for their mother country; and 
felt proud of their descent from and connection 
with one of the most powerful nations of Europe. 
The British parliament, however, began to make 
encroachments upon their rights, and their liber- 
ties. The ministers of the King, seeing the 
country very much in debt, advised him to raise 
money by taxing his subjects in America. The 
advice pleased his majesty, and accordingly a 

Questions.— 3. From a few, Ac, what did they grow to ? At that 
time what was the number of inhabitants ? What had they early 
learned? What have we seen ? 4. What is said of the colonists ' 
What IS said of the British parliament? What did the ministers 
advise? 



The Revolution. 131 

flaw was passed imposing a duly upon various 
arlicles of merchandise imported to America. 
j 5. The people of America contended that they 
jshould not be taxed without their consent, and 
ithey opposed these measures. They used every 
'means in their power to induce the King to 
■ change his conduct towards thetn : but their 
arguments were only answered by renewed acts 
'of oppression. 

6. In 1765 the famous Stamp Act was passed 
;by the British Parliament, by which all instru- 
! ments of writing in the American colonies, such 
as deeds, wills, ifcc, were null and void, unless 
drawn up on stamp paper, on which a duty was 
to be paid. The news of this measure created the 
greatest excitement among the colonists. In the 
Assembly of Virginia, the patriotic Patrick Henry 
brought forward a number of spirited resolutions 
against it ; and when the news reached Boston, 
the bells were muffled, and rang a funeral peal. 
In New York, the act was carried through the 
streets with a death's head affixed to it, bearing 
this inscription : *' The folly of England and the 
ruin of America." 

7. So great was the opposition to the Stamp 



Questions.— 4. What law was passed? 5. What did the people 
do? What did thoy use? G. In 1705, what was passed? What 
was the effect of this act? What did the news create? In Vir- 
ginia, what was done? In Boston? In New York? 7. What is 
said of the stamp act ? 



132 United States. 

Act, that it was repealed during the spring of 
1766 ; but in the following year, an act was 
passed imposing a duty on tea, paper, glass, and 
paint. This act was followed by another very 
unjust and arbitrary declaration, that all offend- 
ers in the colonies should be sent to England for 
trial ; and in order to carry these measures into 
effect, two British regiments were sent over and 
quartered in Boston. 

8. The feelings of the citizens were highly 
exasperated upon seeing themselves beset by 
foreign soldiers, sent over with the design of 
forcing them to yield to the arbitrary acts of the 
British Parliament. Frequent disputes occurred 
between the soldiers and the inhabitants of Bos- 
ton, and during one of these quarrels, three of 
the citizens were killed, and live more danger- 
ously wounded. Captain Preston and the sol- 
diers, who fired on the people, were brought to 
trial and acquitted. The three citizens slain in 
this affray were buried with great honors, while 
the bells of the city rang a mournful peal. 

9. During the year 1771, the English Parlia- 
iiament repealed the duties upon glass, paint, 
and paper, but retained a tax of three pence per 



Questions. — 7. What other duty was imposed ? By what was this 
act followed? What were sent over? 8. What is said of the citi- 
zens? What frequently occurred? What is said of Captain Pres- 
ton, &c.? Of the three citizens? 9. In 1771, what took place? 
What tax was retained ? 



The Revolution. 133 

pound on tea. The colonists resolved not to 
pay this very unjust duty. The inhabitants of 
New York and Philadelphia prevented the land- 
ing of the tea, but ihe people of Boston deter- 
mined to pursue a different course. A party of 
men dressed like Indians, went on board the ves- 
sels, and tlirew (he tea, consisting of three hun- 
dred and forty chests, into the harbor. 

10. When the news of this bold action reached 
England, the parliament grew highly indignant, 
and an act was immediately passed, ordering the 
port of Boston to be closed, and transferring the 
government to Salem. JNot long after this trans- 
action. General Gage arrived in Boston, with 
two regiments of soldiers, and a great supply of 
military stores. 

11. By these proceedings, the Atnericans saw 
very plainly, that it was the object of the British 
Government to force them into obedience. They 
perceived that a crisis was approaching ; they had 
done all they could do to prevent it ; they had 
petitioned, they had entreated, they had cast 
themselves at the foot of the throne, to invoke its 
interposition to avert the tyranny of the British 
parliament. But their petitions had been disre- 
garded, and their prayers treated with contempt. 

Questions. — 9. What is said of the inhabitants of New York, &c. ? 
What did a party of men do? 10. What did the parliament do? 
After this, who arrived in Boston? 11. What is said of the Ame- 
ricans? What had they done? What is said of their petition.?? 

12 



134 United States. 

12. At length the spirit of the nation was 
roused, and the people resolved to resist the 
oppression of England ; they determined to un- 
sheath the sword, and go forth to the field of 
battle, to shed their blood in the defence of their 
rights, and in the support of the sacred cause of 
liberty. 

13. A regular enlistment of soldiers was com- 
menced, and officers appointed. Delegates from 
all the colonies met in council at Philadelphia; 
this body, generally known by the name of the 
Continental Congress, agreed to suspend all inter- 
course with Great Britain, drew up an address to 
the King, another to the people of England, and 
a third to the colonies. When the news of the 
proceedings of the Continental Congress reached 
England, Massachusetts was declared in a state 
of rebellion, and a large bod}'^ of troops was sent 
over to Boston, to suppress it. 

14. In this state of things, nothing was want- 
ing, but some favorable opportunity to manifest 
the feelings of the people ; and as they acted on 
the defensive, they were anxious that when the 
contest would commence, the British might be 
the aggressors. About eighteen miles from "Bos- 

QuESTiONS. — 12. At length, what did they resolve? What, did 
they determine? 13. What was commenced? What did the Con- 
tinental Congress do ? When the news reached England, what 
was done? 14. In this state of things, what is said? For what 
were they anxious ? 



The Revolution. 135 

ton, (here was a small village by the name of 
Concord : at this place the Americans had some 
military stores. These General Gage resolved to 
destroy, and for this purpose, sent eight hundred 
sohiiers to Concord, under the command of 
Major Pitcairn, on the evening of the 18th of 
April, 1T75. 

15. As they marched through Lexington, they 
were met by a party of American militia, who 
had assembled on an open plain for the purpose 
of opposing their march. Major Pitcairn, riding 
up to them, cried out : '^ Disperse, you rebels !" 
and then discharging his pistol, ordered his men 
to fire. Four or five of the Americans were 
killed and several others wounded. Thus was 
shed the first blood in tliat memorable contest, 
the war of the Revolution, which finally resulted 
in securing the liberty, and establishing the Inde- 
'pendence of America. 

16. After this, the royal troops proceeded to 
Concord and destroyed the military stores. The 
British then attempted to cut oflf the approach of 
the Americans by destroying the bridges ; but at 
Concord bridge they were opposed by the Ameri- 
cans, and a slight action took place, which re- 



QuESTioNS. — 14. Where had the Americans some stores? What 
did General Gage resolve to do, &c. ? 15. At Lexington what took 
place? What did Pitcairn do? How many Americans were 
killed ? 16. What did the royal troops do ? What took place at 
Concord bridge? 



136 United States. 

suited in the retreat of the English, with a loss 
of several killed and wounded. Major Pitcairn, 
alarmed at the courage of the Americans, and 
deeming it unsafe to remain any longer at Con- 
cord, immediately commenced his march to 
Boston. 

17. In the meantime, the news of the affair 
at Concord spread with rapidity through the 
country, and ihe people in a mass flew to arms. 
They attacked the retreating troops on every 
side ; a constant fire was kept up from behind 
trees, walls and rocks, until the British reached 
Lexington, when they were joined by a bod}^ of 
troops from Boston, which secured their retreat 
to that city. During this transaction, the British 
lost sixty-five in killed, and one hundred and 
eighty wounded . The Americans lost fifty killed, 
and ihirty-four wounded. 

18. The affair at Concord was considered by 
the Americans as the signal for hostilities. They 
immediately secured the forts, magazines and 
arsenals within the limits of the colonies ; and 
Congress passed a resolution for raising thirty 
thousand men in New England. The excite- 
ment of the people was intense, and they readily 
responded to the call. 

QuESTioxs. — 16. What did Major Pitcairn do? 17. In the mean- 
time what took place? How did the}'- attack the troops ? What 
was the loss on both sides ? 18. What is said of the affair at Con- 
cord? What did they secure ? What did Congress do? 



The Revolution. 137 

1 9. It is related of an aged farmer near Cam- 
bridge, that, seeing his son about to start with a 
company of other lads, he said : *^ Young men, 
may God be with you all ; and you, my son 
John, if you must fight, fight like a man ; if not, 
never let me see you again." When the news 
of what had taken place at Lexington reached 
General Putnam, he was ploughing in the field. 
He immediately stopped his team, and leaving 
his plough in the unfinished furrow, mounted his 
horse and proceeded with rapidity to Boston. 

20. Before proceeding further, we must inform 
our young readers that by far the greater part of 
the Americans about to engage in the battle for 
freedom, were farmers and mechanics, men who 
knew but little about the arts of war. But their 
cause was just : their rights had been invaded, 
their liberties were in danger, and the soil of 
their country had already been watered by the 
blood of their fellow-citizens. 

21. The country at that time was poor, the 
cities small, and the trade limited ; and the 
population of the entire thirteen colonies was 
only about three millions of human beings, ex- 
clusive of the Indians. Yet, under all these 
disadvantages, our illustrious ancestors resolved 

Questions.— 19. What is related ? What is said of General Put- 
nam ? 20. What were th,e greater part of the Americans ? What 
is said of their cause ? 21. What is said of the country ? Yet what 
did our ancestors resolve ? 

12* 



138 United States. 

to engage in a deadly struggle with one of the 
most powerful nations of the earth. The En- 
glish had large armies, a thousand ships, and an 
abundance of military stores. Of all these the 
Americans were destitute. They knew, how- 
ever, that the race is not always to the swift, nor 
the battle to the strong ; but to the active, the 
courageous, the brave. 7^hey knew tliere is a 
just God, who presides over the destinies of na- 
tions, and poises in His hand the fate of empires. 
In Him they put their trust, and under the ap- 
proving smile of His protection, they went forth 
to battle. 

22. Towards the close of May, in 1775, a 
considerable reinforcement of British troops ar- 
rived in Boston, under the command of Generals 
Howe, Clinton and Burgoyne. The Americans 
were anxious to get possession of Boston, and for 
that purpose a detachment of one thousand men 
were sent to occupy Bunker Hill ; but by some 
mistake the}^ proceeded to Breed's Hill, an em- 
inence much nearer the city, and there com- 
menced to throw up an entrenchment. At 
midnight they commenced their operations, 
and their movements were conducted with so 
much silence, that the English had no inti- 

QuESTiONS,— 21. What had the English? What did the Ameri- 
oansknow? 22. In 1775, what arrived ? For what weie the Ame- 
ricans anxious ? What did they do? When did they commenee 
their operations ? 



The Revolution. 139 

matiou of their design until the return of morn- 
ing. 

23. During the morning, Colonel Prescott 
received a reinforcement of five hundred men, 
and about noon General Gage sent two thousand 
men to drive the Americans from their works. 
As they were advancing to the attack, Charles- 
town was set on fire. The devouring element 
spread from house to house, and soon the entire 
town was enveloped in flames. It was now the 
17th of June, and the day was extremely warm. 
The British advanced tow^ards Breed's Hill, and 
the Americans remained behind their entrench- 
ments, ready to receive them. 

24. The moment was one of the deepest 
interest. The steeples and houses of Boston, 
together with the surrounding hills, w^ere covered 
with a multitude of persons. Some there were, 
who, with uplifted hands, invoked the blessing 
of heaven upon the cause of the Americans, 
among whom, perhaps, they had a husband, a 
father, a brother, or a fond and devoted friend. 
Others again, perhaps, secretly wished success to 
the British ; while all gazed with breathless 
silence upon the scene. 

25. The stillness of death rested on the Ameri- 



QuESTioNS.— 23. What did Prescott receive? At noon, what was 
done? What town was set on fire? What day of the month? 
24, What is said of the moment ? What did some do ? Others 
r again ? 25. What is said ? 



140 United States. 

can lines, until the English approached within a 
few rods of their works ; then, at a given signal, 
they poured forth a sudden and destructive shower 
of balls upon the enemy. So fatal was this 
volley, that the British instantly turned and re- 
treated hastily to their boats. They were soon 
rallied, and again returned to the attack, but a 
second time they were obliged to retreat. A 
third time they were brought to the charge : the 
contest now raged with intense fury on both 
sides ; the Americans, having exhausted all their 
powder, fought for some time with the butt-ends 
of their muskets, and finally yielded their en- 
trenchments. 

26. In (his battle the British lost one thousand 
and fifty-four in killed and wounded, while the 
Americans lost four hundred and fifty-three. 
The British officers were astonished at the re- 
sult ; they had formerly despised the Americans, 
but now they were taught, at least, to respect 
their heroic valor. On the part of the Ameri- 
cans, the effect was renewed courage and confi- 
dence. They were repulsed, it is true, but it 
was only for the want of ammunition. They 
found that in an equal contest they could beat 
the English regulars. 

Questions. — 25. What is said of the charge? What did they 
again do ? What is now said of the contest ? Of the Americans ? 
26. What was the loss on each side ? What is said of British offi- 
cers? How did it inspire the Americans ? 



The Revolution. 141 

27. Although the Americans were partially 
successful in this memorable battle, yet they had 
to lament the loss of many of their brave associ- 
ates. Among the slain was the patriotic General 
Warren. This distinguished man was endeared 
to his companions in arms, by his amiable dispo- 
sition and heroic courage, and was loved and 
esteemed by all, on account of his true and dis- 
interested patriotism. While the battle raged in 
its greatest fury, Warren was seen in the midst 
of his countrymen, animating them by his pre- 
sence and example. While thus engaged, a 
British officer, who knew him, took a gun from 
the hand of a soldier, and shot him through the 
head. 

28. At this time the Continental Congress was 
in session in Philadelphia; that body resolved on 
immediate measures of defence. They began to 
organize an army, and unanimously elected 
George Washington, a member of their body 
from Virginia, as commander-in-chief of the 
i\merican forces. Washington received the ap- 
pointment with much diffidence, but, entering 
without delay upon the duties of his office, he, 
on the second of July, joined the army at Cam- 
bridge. 

Questions. — 27. Who was among the slain? What is said of 
him ? While the battle raged, what did he do ? How was he 
killed ? 28. Where was Congress in session ? Who was elected 
as commander-in-chief? When and where did he join the army? 



142 United States. 

29. With a view of guarding the frontier, a 
plan was devised for the invasion of Canada, 
and accordingly a body of troops under Generals 
Schuyler and Montgomery, was sent into that 
country. But General Schuyler being detained 
by sickness, the chief command devolved on 
General Montgomery, who pushed forward on 
his expedition, took Fort Chamblee, and the 
city of Montreal, which surrendered without re- 
sistance ; and planted his victorious standard be- 
fore the very walls of Quebec. 

30. A second division was sent forward under 
General Arnold, and the two generals in con- 
junction, made an attack upon the city of Que- 
bec. It was the last day of December, and the 
cold was intense. Montgomery advanced at the 
head of his men, animating them by his pre- 
sence, and with his own hand, assisted in cutting 
a wa}^ through the ice and snow. At length, 
waving his sword, he rushed forward, followed 
by his soldiers. A single discharge was heard 
from the battery, the gunners fled, and in a few 
moments the walls of Quebec were in the posses- 
sion of the Americans. 

31. But unfortunately, as they entered the 



Questions. — 29. Who were sent into Canada ? What is said of 
General Schuyler? What did Montgomery do? 30. Under whom 
was a second division sent ? What city did they attack ? What is 
said of Montgomery? What did the gunners do, &c.? 31. As 
they entered the city, what happened? 



The Revolution. 143 

city, a ball discharged from a neigliboring house 
proved fatal to the brave Montgomery; befell 
cheering his men to the combat. At the same 
time, General Arnold, who had made an attack 
upon another part of the cily, was wounded by 
a cannon ball. After the fall of Monlgomery, 
the officer next in command ordered his men to 
retreat. 

32. No man fell, during the revolutionary 
contest, whose death was more lamented than 
that of the heroic Montgomery. He engaged 
in the American cause from principles of the 
purest patriotism. He had left the enjoyment of 
ease, and the highest domestic happiness, in 
Ireland, his native land, to share the toils and 
dangers of a war undertaken to defend the rights 
of a country of which he was only an adopted 
citizen. 

33. About this time. General Washington 
formed the design of driving the British from 
Boston. Accordingly, he erected a battery on 
Dorchester Heights, a situation that gave him 
complete command of the city. General Howe, 
finding it impossible to remove the Americans 
from their position, evacuated Boston on the 17th 
of March, and embarked with his troops for 

Questions. — 31. What happened to Arnold ? 32. What is said of 
the fall of Montgomery ? What did he leave ? 33. What is said of 
Washington ? What did he do ? When did the British leave 
Boston? 



144 United States. 

Halifax. On the same day. General Washing- 
ton entered the city amidst the joyous acclama- 
lions of the inhabilants. 



CHAPTER XXIY. 

The Declaration of Independence. 



1 



1. We have seen in the preceding cliapter that 
the patriots of the revohjtion, at the commence- 
ment of the contest, only contended for their i 
rights as British subjects ; but now, seeing that 
there was no choice left them but that of abso- 
lute freedom or degrading slavery, they began to 
assume a loftier position. The subject of Inde- 
pendence began \o be openly discussed ; and, at 
length, they resolved to sever entirely the con- 
nection which bound them to the mother country. 

2. Accordingly, on the 7th of June, a motion 
was made in Congress, by Richard Henry Lee, 
of Virginia, to declare the colonies free and inde- 
pendent : and at the same time, a committee, 
consisting of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, 
Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert 
Livingston, was appointed to prepare a declaration. 

Questions. — 33. On the same day? 1. What have we seen? For 
what had fcliey contended ? What is said of Independence ? What 
did they resolve ? 2. On tlie 7th of June, what was done ? At the 
same time what was done ? 



The Revolution, 145 

3. On the memorable 4lh of Jul)'^, 1776, the 
report of that committee was adopted by the 
Conlinental Congress, and the thirteen confed- 
erate colonies were declared to be free and 
independent Slates, and at the same time all 
connection between them and Great Britain for- 
ever dissolved. The first important battle fought 
after (he Declaration of Independence, was that 
of Long Island, in which the Americans were 
repulsed, with a loss of about four hundred men. 

4. At this lime an incident occurred which 
exhibits the spirit of General Washington . Let- 
ters were directed to him by General Howe, the 
commander of the British forces ; but as these 
letters were directed to George Washington, and 
not to hhn in his official capacity, he refused to 
receive them. And when Colonel Patterson, the 
bearer of the letters, said that they were of great 
importance, and contained offers of pardon, (fee. 
General Washington very calmly rephed that the 
Americans had committed no wrong, and there- 
fore w^anied no pardon ; they were only defend- 
ing (heir rights and (heir liberties. 

5. Shortly after the battle of Long Island, 
General Howe entered the city of New York, 

Questions. — 3. What took place on the 4th of July, 1776 ? Where 
was the first battle after the Declaration of Independence ? 
4. What incident occurred? What is said of these letters? What 
reply did Washington make to Patterson? 5. What is said of 
General Howe ? 

13 



146 United States. 

and the Americans retired to White Plains, where 
a severe action took place with considerable loss 
on both sides. The limits of our little history- 
will not permit us to relate all that happened 
during this eventful period ; we will have to 
confine ourselves to a few of the most important 
events. 

G. During this war, the British hired soldiers 
to fight against the Americans ; among these 
were a great number of troops from Hesse in 
Germany, which were called Hessians. A large 
detachment of these Hessians were stationed at 
Trenton ; while the Americans were encamped 
on the Pennsylvania side of the Delaware river. 
On tlve twenty-fifih of December, General Wash- 
ington, with a select body of men, crossed the 
Delaware, attacked the Hessians, and took tiine 
hmidred of them prisoners. 

7. He then proceeded to Princeton, and on 
the third of January, 1777, defeated a body of 
the British, with the loss of one hundred men, 
and compelled the remainder, about three hun- 
dred in number, to surrender themselves as 
prisoners of war. In this action, General Mercer, 
of Virginia, was killed. 

Questions. — 5. Of the Americans? What tooi place at White 
Plains? 6, What did the British do, during the war? Where 
was a detachment of these stationed ? On 25th of December, 
what did Washington do? 7. What did he then do? In this 
action, who was killed ? 



The Revolution. 147 



CHAPTER XXV. 

I 

The Battle op Brandyvvine — Surrender 
OP BuRGOYNE — The Arrival of Aid from 
Prance — The Destruction of the Set- 
tlement OF Wyoming. 

1. It had been for some time the object of 
iGeneral Howe to get possession of Pliiladelphia. 

For this purpose he left New York with a fleet 
I carrying about sixteen thousand men, entered 
the Chesapeake Bay, and having landed his 
troops near the head of Elk River, commenced 
his march to Philadelphia. 

2. General Washington, who closely watched 
his movements, hastened to oppose his progress 
wilh a much inferior force. On the Ulh of 
September, the two armies met on the banks of 
the river Brandywine. A severe battle followed, 
in which the Americans were repulsed with con- 
siderable loss. This battle is rendered memora- 
ble for being the first in which the Marquis de 
Lafayette and Pulaski were engaged, the former 
of whom was wounded. 

3. Lafayette was a young French nobleman. 
He left his country and his home in order to 

Questions. — 1. "What had been the object of Howe? For this 
purpose, what did he do ? 2. What is said of Washington ? What 
took place on the llth of September? For what is this battle 
memorable? 3. Who was Lafayette? 



148 United States. 

assist the Americans, engaged in the defence ofl| 
their rights and their liberties. He fought bravely 
and successfully during the war, and returned 
wiih honor to his native land. 

4. The brave and patriotic Pulaski was a 
native of Poland. Disgusted at the tyranny that 
weighed upon his native country, he resolved to 
forsake the land of his fathers, and to devote his| 
life to the cause of liberty in a foreign clime. 
He accordingly came to America, to assist the 
countrymen of Washington in gaining their inde- 
pendence ; and after spending about two years 
in this noble cause, he fell a sacrifice to his 
patriotism at Savannah, when that city was at- 
tacked by General Lincoln. 

5. After the battle of Brandywine, the British 
General directed his march to Philadelphia, and 
took possession of that city. While these opera- 
tions were going on in the middle States, more 
auspicious events were taking place in the north. 
General Burgoyne, who commanded the British 
in that quarter, had crossed the Hudson and en- 
camped near Saratoga. General Gates, who 
commanded the American army in the north, re- 
solved, if possible, to intercept the progress of 

Questions. — 3. How did he fight? 4. Who was Pulaski? What 
is said of him? What was liis fate? 5. What did the British 
General do? What was taking place in the north? What did 
General Burgoyne do? Who commanded the Americans in the 
north? 



The Revolution. 149 

Burgoyne. On the 18th of September, a severe 
engagement took place at Stillwater, near Sara- 
toga. 

6. On the 7lh of October, the memorable 
bailie of Saratoga took place. While the battle 
raged in all its fury, General Gates, who was 
commander-in-chief, is said to have remained 
quietly in his tent, conversing with a British 
officer. The victory was obtained by the cour- 
age and intrepidity of General Arnold. Arnold, 
mounted on a splendid charger, seemed to be 
everywhere almost at the same moment, anima- 
ting his men to the charge. At length the gal- 
lant horse that had borne him safely through 
scenes of blood and fire, was killed under him ; 
at the same time Arnold fell severely wounded, 
in the moment of victory. As he was carried 
bleeding from the field, he exclain^ed : ^' The 
battle is ours ; Saratoga is won !" 

7. The situation of Burgoyne was now ex- 
tremely critical. His splendid army of ten thou- 
sand men was defeated in several engagements, 
and reduced to nearly half its number. But 
still he was too proud to submit to his fate. At 
length seeing his position growing hourly more 

Questions.— 5. On the 18th of September, what took place? 6. On 
the 7th of October, what took place ? While the battle raged, what 
is said of General Gates? By whom was the victory gained ? What 
is said of Arnold? At length, what happened? What did he ex- 
claim? 7. What is said of Burgone ? Of his army? At length, 
what did he do ? 

13* 



150 United States. 

critical, he called a council of war, and it was 
resolved to surrender by capitulation. 

8. Accordingly on the 17th of October, he 
surrendered his whole army, amounting to nearly 
six thousand men, to General Gates, as prisoners 
of war. Among the many valuable articles ob- 
tained by this surrender, were forty-two pieces of 
cannon, seven thousand muskets, a vast supply 
of shot, shells, tents, and military stores. 

9. This event diffused universal joy among 
the Americans, and inspired them with renewed 
ardor in the cause of freedom. During the pre- 
vious year, three commissioners had been sent to 
Europe to obtain aid and alliance from foreigii 
powers. At first they were unsuccessful, but at 
last they obtained the promise of assistance from 
Louis XVI. king of France ; and in July, 1778, 
to the great joy of the whole American people, a 
French fleet arrived at the mouth of the Dela- 
ware. The fleet, however, effected nothing of 
importance for the time being, and towards the 
close of tfie season, it sailed to the West Indies. 

10. About this time happened an event, for ihe 
cruelty and barbarity of which, there can scarcely 
be found a parallel on the page of history. On 

Questions.— 8. On the 17th of October, what took place? What 
were some of the articles obtained by this surrender? 9. What 
is said of this event? During the previous year, what had been 
done? At last what did thej"^ obtain ? In July what took place? 
What is said of the fleet ? 10. What happened about this time ? 



The Revolution. 151 

the banks of the Susquehanna, in the present 
county of Luzurne, Pennsylvania, were situated 
the beautiful settlement and village of Wyoming 
Here about one thousand families lived joyful 
and happy, while industry and frugality added 
to their prosperity. 

11. A party of Tories, with a band of about 
four hundred Indians, resolved on the destruction 
of this beautiful vale. The inhabitants were 
apprised of the danger, but too late to make any 
adequate defence. They however threw up a 
rude fortification, with a resolution to defend their 
homes and their families ; and in this they might 
have been successful, had il not been for the vile 
stratagem of their heardess foes. 

12. Before arriving at Wyoming, the Tories 
sent a messenger to the fort, stating that they 
would not do the inhabitants any injury, but 
wished to hold a conference with them a short 
distance from the village. Without suspecting 
the treacherous designs of his enemies, Colonel 
Butler, the commander of the fort, leaving be- 
hind him a small force, set out with the main 
body of his men to meet them. 

13. They marched with the messenger into a 
thick and gloomy forest ; here they were sud- 

QuESTiONS. — 10. Where was Wyoming situated? What is said of 
it? 11. What did the Tories, &e., do? The inhabitants? What 
did they throw up ? 12. Before, &c., what did the Tories do ? 
What did Colonel Butler do ? 13. Where did they march ? 



152 United States. 

denly sunonnded by the Tories and Indians to 
the niiniber of sixteen hundred, and most inhu- 
manely massacred. Out of four hundred men 
that left the fort, only sixty escaped. The enemy 
then hastened to attack the fortifications which 
had been recently thrown up; and on arriving jj 
there they threw over the walls the bleeding ' 
scalps of the murdered men. Finding resistance 
useless, those within determined to sui render, 
and asked the Tory commander what terms he 
would give them. He answered — the hatchet. 1 

14. A few moments more and the horrid work 
Avas completed. The men were murdered, and 
the women, with infants in their arms, were, 
locked up in their houses, or enclosed in the f 
fort, and the whole consumed in one awful con- 
flagration. The groans of the dying, and the 
shrieks of the living were only answered by the 
imprecations of the Tories, and the deafening 
war-whoop of the savages. 



Questions. — 13. Here what happened? How many escaped? 
What did the enemy then do ? Wliat did tlipy ask ? Wliat did he 
reply? 14. What happened to the men? The women? What is 
said of the groans of the dying ? 



Thr Revolution. 153 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

Gates' Defeat — The Treachery of Gen- 
eral Arnold — The Surrender of Lord 
cornwallts at yorktown. 

1. During the year 1779, the theatre of the war 
was changed from the northern to the southern 
provinces of the country. Charleston, the capi- 
tal of South Carohna, was taken by the British 
after a siege of six months, and having reduced 
the capital, they began to carry their devastations 
through the interior of the State. 

2. In order to check the progress of the enemy, 
the Americans formed themselves into small par- 
ties, under Generals Sumpter, Marion and other 
leaders. The bold and patriotic deeds of these 
noble men have always been a theme of admira- 
tion. They fought without pay : they wore no 
uniform, and they depended on chance for food 
to eat. They were often without arms and 
amunition, and were obliged to watch, as their 
companions shot down (he enemy, when they 
would instantly seize their muskets and cart- 
ridges. But all this Ihey joyfully endured, be- 
cause they were contending for the rights of their 

Questions. — 1. What took place during the year 1779 ? What is 
said of Charleston? 2. What did the Americans form? What is 
paid of their deeds ? How did they fight ? What were they often 
obliged to do ? Why did they joyfully endure all this ? 



154 United States. 

country, the liberty of their children, and those 
blessings of freedom which we enjoy. 

3. On a certain occasion, a British officer was 
sent from Georgetown to negotiate an exchange 
of prisoners, and was conducted to General Ma- 
rion's quarters. He was kindly received and l\ 
politely entertained by the General, and having 
concluded his business was about to retire, when 
Marion invited him to dine with him. To this 
the officer readily consented. Dinner was im- 
mediately ordered, which consisted of a few 
roasted sweet potatoes, piled upon a piece of 
bark ; they were placed between Marion and the | 
British officer, who were seated upon a log. 

4. As the officer took one of the potatoes, he 
broke forth into a fit of laughter, but immediately 
apologized, saying : '' Pardon me. General ; I 
was only laughing at what I thought some of 
my brother officers would say if such poor fare 
was set before them. But, General," continued 
the officer, <^ if your fare is bad, your pay is 
good." 

5. ^^ Pay!" exclaimed Marion, '' we receive no 
pay, and never expect to receive a cent." The 
officer was so struck with what he had seen and 



Questions. — 3. On one occasion, what took place? What did 
Marion invite him to do? Of what did the dinner consist? 
4. What is related of the officer? What did he say? What 
did he add? 5. What did Marion reply? What is said of the 
officer ? 



The Revolution. 155 

heard, that on his return to Georgetown he re- 
signed his commission, and retired from the ser- 
vice, saying tiiat it was useless to contend with 
men who made such sacrifices to maintain their 
liberty. 

6. It happened at this time that (he command 
of the southern army was intrusted to General 
Gates, the hero of Saratoga, who was sent into 
South Carohna. Gaies was brave, but impru- 
dent ; he lead his army through a dreary and 
barren part of the country, and many of his men 
died on the route, from disease, fatigue, and want. 
At length, he arrived near Camden and took up 
a very unfavorable position between two swamps. 

7. In the meantime, Lord Cornwallis, learn- 
ing his position, hastened to join Lord Rawdon 
with reinforcements, and on the 16th of August 
a severe engagement look place. At the first 
charge of the British, the Virginia troops under 
General Gates fled, and spread confusion and 
disorder among the North Carolina militia. 
Gates was struck with consternation ; all his 
former courage seemed to have forsaken him ; 
and seeing the disorder of his men, he put spurs 
to his horse and fled with the utmost speed, for 
eighty miles, before he stopped. 

Questions.— 6. What happened at this time? What is said of 
Gates? Where did he take up his position? 7. What is said of 
Cornwallis ? At the first charge, what is said ? What is related of 
Giates? 



156 United States. 

8. After the flight of Gates, the battle was 
maintained by the illustrious Baron De Kalb, 
who, for some time, bravely repulsed the advan- 
cing battalions of the enemy. De Kalb was a 
distinguished Prussian general,*who, like Lafay- 
ette, Pulaski, and others, left his home and came 
to this country to aid the Americans in gaining 
iheir independence. 

9. In this battle he commanded the regular 
troops of Mar3/land and Delaware, and like a 
true hero, bravely maintained his position until, 
overpowered b}'^ numbers and surrounded by the 
enemy, he fell pierced with eleven wounds. 
His soldiers, who tenderly loved him, gathered 
around their fallen general, and fought with des- 
peration over his bleeding form, exclaiming, in 
the bitterness of their grief, '^ Save the Baron 
De Kalb !" 

10. The noble conduct of De Kalb elicited! 
the admiration even of the enemy. To a British 
officer, who kindly endeavored to stop the blood 
that flowed from his wounds, he said : ^' 1 thank « 
you for your generous sympathy, but I die the f 
deaih 1 always prayed for — the death of a sol- 
dier j^ghting for the rights of majiy 

11. During this year the sorrow of the nation 

Questions. — 8. After the flight of Gates, by whom was the battle 
maintained? What is said of DeKalb? 9. What did he com- 
mand? What is said of him? What did his soldiers do, and 
exclaim? 10. To a British officer, what did he say? 11. During 
the year, what is said ? 



ii 



< 



The Revolution. 157 

I 

was increased by the treachery of General Arnold. 
The Americans could bear with becoming forti- 
tude the defeat of their armies, the death of their 
officers, and the loss of their soldiers : these things 
were in the nature of events — they were the 
chances of war. But never for a moment did 
they imagine that there was one among their 
small number capable of betraying his country. 

12. Can it be possible, they asked themselves 
again and again — can it be possible that he who 
fought and bled for his country, the hero of Sara- 
toga's bloody field — that General Arnold is a 
traitor? Alas ! the fact was only too true. 

13. General Washington being called to Con- 
necticut, left the important fortress of West Point 
under the command of Arnold. During his ab- 
sence, Arnold resolved to deliver up the fortress, 
with all its garrison, into the hands of the British. 
The iBritish agent through whom the negotiation 
was conducted was the unfortunate Major Andre. 
After having an interview with the traitor, Andre 
was returning to New York, when he was 
delected by three Americans, and thus the 
treacherous designs of Arnold were fortunately 
discovered before they could be carried into 
execution. 

Questions.— 11. What is said of the Americans? What did they 
never thinlc ? 12. What did they ask themselves ? 13. What is said 
of General Washington? What did Arnold resolve? Who was the 
British agent? After having an interview, &c., what happened to 
Andre ? 

14 



158 United States. 

14. The names of the three Americans who 
detected Andre, were John Paulding, David 
Williams and Isaac Van Wart. On searching 
him, they found a drawing of the fort and other 
papers, in Arnold's own hand-writing, concealed 
in one of his boots. Andre offered them his gold 
watch and a large sum of money if they would 
let him go, but they refused his offers, and led 
him in triumph to the American camp. 

15. Andre was tried by a court-martial, and 
being convicted as a spy, his life was forfeited by 
the laws of war. Hisyouih, and many amiable 
qualities, endeared him to the officers of the Brit- 
ish army, while his fate was deeply regretted by 
all. Arnold escaped to New York, and received, 
as the reward of his treachery, an appointment 
to the office of general in the British army. 

16. During the summer of 1781, the British 
forces in the south were greatly weakened by the 
loss of several important battles. Colonel Tar- 
leton, the British commander, was defeated by 
the Americans, under General Morgan, in the 
battle of the Cowpens ; and Colonel Stewart was 
defeated by General Green and General Marion 
in the battle at Eutaw Springs. After this battle, 

Questions. — 14. What are the names of the three Americans ? 
Where did they find his papers? What did he offer them? 
15. What is said of Andre? His youth, &c.? What became of 
Arnold ? 16. What is said of the British forces ? Where and by 
whom was Tarleton and Stewart defeated ? 



The Revolution. 159 

Lord Cornwallis left South Carolina and fortified 
; himself at Yorktown in Virginia. 
j 17. General Washington, learning the position 
It of Cornwallis, secretly left his camp at White 
Plains, crossed the Hudson with his army, and 
passing rapidly through New Jersey and Penn- 
sylvania, arrived at the head of Elk Riveir, where 
he was joined by a considerable reinforcement 
under Marquis De Lafayette. Without losing a 
moment, Washington embarked his forces and 
arrived at Yorktown. 

18. Here a close siege was commenced, and 
carried on with so much vigor by the united 
forces of France and America, that Lord Corn- 
wallis, on the 19th of October, was compelled to 
sign articles of capitulation, by which his whole 
army, his shipping, and military stores, were sur- 
rendered to General Washington. 

19. This event spread universal joy among 
the Americans. General Washington ordered 
divine service to be performed in the different 
brigades of the army, and the members of Con- 
gress went in procession to Church, and there 
publicly offered up thanks to God for the signal 
triumph of the American arms. 

Questions. — 16. Where did Cornwallis fortify himself? 17. "What 
is said of General Washington? By whom was he joined? 
18. Here what was commenced ? What was Cornwallis compelled 
to do? 19. What is said of this event? What did Washington 
order ? What did Congress do ? 



160 United States, 

20. This event may be considered as the 
termination of the American struggle for inde- 
pendence. Great Britain, seeing that no rational 
hope remained of conquering America, resolved 
to discontinue a war which had only reflected 
discredit upon her arms. Accord ingl}'^, on the 3d 
of September, 1783, a definite treaty of peace 
was concluded at Versailles, by which the thirteen 
United Colonies were admitted to be '^ Free, 
Sovereign and Independent States.^ ^ 

21. After this the patriotic army was disbanded, 
and General Washington, after taking an afTec- J 
tionale leave of the soldiers and officers who had 
fought by his side, resigned his commission, and 
again retired to his estate at Mount Vernon, car- 
rying with him into his retirement of private life 
the gratitude of his country and the applause i 
and admiration of the whole world. 



Questions. — 20. What may this event be considered? What is 
said of Great Britain? In September, 1783, what took place? 
21. What took place after this ? What did General Washington 
do ? When did he retire ? 



i 



Washington's Administration. 161 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

The Formation of the Constitution — 
Washington Elected the First Presi- 
dent. 

1. At the close of the war it was found that 
the Ariicles of Confederafion by which the States 
were governed were weak and imperfecl ; it was 
therefore determined to establish some general 
form of government belter suited to the time and 
to the growing prosperity of the country. Ac- 
cordingly, delegates from all the Stales, except 
Rhode Island, met at Philadelphia, and after 
•four months' deliberation they succeeded in form- 
ing the present constitution of the United States. 
2. By the constitution, all legislative powers 
are placed in a Congress, consisting of a Presi- 
dent, a Senate and House of Representatives. 
According to the provisions of the constitution, 
the several States immediately elected their dele- 
gates to Congress, and, by the unanimous vote 
of the people. General Washington was chosen 
the first President. 

3. When the appointment was made known 

Questions.—!. At the close of the war, what was formed? What 
was determined ? Where did the delegates assemble ? 2. By the 
constitution, where are the powers placed ? Who was chosen the 
first president ? 3. When the appointment was made known to 
him, what did he do ? 

14* 



162 United States. 

to him, he yielded to the call of his country, 
and bidding adieu to his peaceful retirement at 
Mount Vernon, he proceeded to New York, where 
the Congress was then assembled. His progress 
to that cily was marked by every demonstration 
of respect; triumphal arches were erected to ' 
commemorate his achievements ; and he was 
every where hailed as the Father of his country. | 

4. On the 30ih of April, 1789, he was inau- 
gurated as President of the United States, in the 
City Hall of New York, the oath of office being , 
administered by Mr. Livingston, chancellor of | 
the State of New York. John Adams, of JMassa- 
chuseits, who had borne a distinguished part in the 
Revolution, was elected the first Vice President. 

5. At the end of General Washington's second 
term of office, he declined a re-election, and after 
delivering a farewell address to the people, he 
retired again to his residence at Mount Vernon. 
He was succeeded in the administration by John 
Adams, who was elected the second President of 
the United Slates. 

6. During Mr. Adams' administration, the 
hostile attitude of France towards the United 
States, caused the American government to adopt 



Questions. — 3. What is said of his progress to New York ? 
4. What happened on April 30th ? Who was the first Vice Presi- 
dent? 5. What did General Washington decline? What did he 
do? By whom was he succeeded? 6. During Adams' administra- 
tion, what took place ? 



Washington's Administration. 163 

measures of defence. The navy was increased, 
an army was- raised, and General Washington 
was appointed commander-in-chief. These de- 
cisive measures on tlie part of the United States 
induced the French government to listen to an 
amicable settlement of the dispute. 

7. At this time the nation was destined to 
experience a severe loss by the death of General 
Washington. On the 14th of December he re- 
ceived a slight sprinkle of rain, and was seized in 
a few hours afterwards with an inflammation of 
the throat, attended with fever. He died on 
the following day at Mount Vernon, his residence, 
in the sixty-eighth year of his age, A.D. 1799. 

8. Mr. JefTerson succeeded Mr. Adams in the 
office of President. During Mr. Jefferson's ad- 
ministration, disputes occurred with Algiers, Tu- 
nis, Morocco and Tripoli. The difficulty with 
the first three was easily settled : but Tripoli 
persisted in demanding certain tributes, which the 
United States refused to pay, in consequence of 
which the Tripolitans captured several American 
vessels. 

9. In 1803, Commodore Preble, with a small 
squadron, was sent into the Mediterranean to 
protect American commerce ; but shortly after 

QuESTioiNS.— G. What was done? 7. At this time, what toolc 
place? On the 14th, what happened? When and where did 
Washington die? 8. Who succeeded Mr. Adams? During his 
administratihn, what occurred? What did Tripoli demand? 
9. In 1803, what took place ? 



164 United States. 



II 



his arrival, the frigate Philadelphia, under the 
command of Captain Brainbridge, ran upon a 
rock near Tripoli. She was obliged to strike her 
colors, and her officers and crew were made 
prisoners. The Tripolitans having released the 
Philadelphia, drew her inJo the harbor of Tripoli ; 
but she was shortly afterwards destroyed by Com- 
modore Decatur, who sailed into the very harbor 
of Tripoli and set her on fire ; he then escaped, 
amidst a terrific shower of balls from the enemy's 
batteries, without the loss of a single man. The 
war was finally terminated by a treaty, in 1805. 

10. The thirteen Slates which originally 
formed the Union, were, as we have seen. New 
Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New 
York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, 
Rhode Island, Maryland, Virginia, North Caro- 
lina, South Carolina and Georgia. 

H. In 179L, Yermont, hitherto claimed by 
New York as part of her territory, was admitted 
into the Union ; in 1792, Kentucky, originally a 
part of Virginia; in 1796, Tennessee, formerly 
part of North Carolina ; in 1802, Ohio, originally 
claimed by Virginia and Connecticut. Louisiana 
was purchased from the French government in 
1803, but was only admitted as a State in 1812. 



Questions. — 9, "What happened the frigate Philadelphia? What 
was she obliged to do? By whom was she destroyed? 10. Give 
us the names of the States which originally formed the Union- 
11. What States were admitted from 1789 to 1812? 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIJS". 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

The Causes of the War — The Surrender 
OF General Hull — The Capture of the 
British Frigate Guerriere — The Inva- 
sion OF Canada, and Death of General 
Pike. 

1. During the year 1806, the British govern- 
ment declared all the French and German ports 
to be in a state of blockade, and prohibited all 
neutral vessels from trading with France and 
Germany, under the penalty of being seized and 
condemned. Shortly after this, the Emperor of 
France issued a decree, prohibiting all intercourse 
with the British Islands. While the trade of the 
United States was thus restricted by the contend- 
ing powers of Europe, another species of insult 
and injury arose. 

2. This was the practice adopted by Great 
Britain of searching American vessels and taking 

Questions. — 1. During 1806, what did the British government 
do ? "What did the Emperor of France do ? While the trade was 
restricted, &c., what is said ? 2. What was this custom ? ■ 

105 



166 United States. 

from them such seamen as were supposed to be 
British deserters. This custom was subject to 
great abuse, because it was difficult to distinguish 
between American and British seamen ; but 
there was, moreover, strong reason to believe 
that the British officers did not wish to make this 
distinction, and that in many instances American i 
citizens were compelled to serve in the British 
navy. 

3. In 1809, Mr. James Madison succeeded 
Mr. Jefferson in the office of President of the 
United States. The President, during the first 
three years of his administration, did everything 
in his power to effect an amicable settlement of 
the difficulties between the United Slates and 
Great Britain. But his endeavors were fruitless ; 
Great Britain still continued to search American 
vessels, and to impose restriction on American 
trade. 

4. At length, on the first of June, 1812, Mr. 
Madison sent a message to Congress, strongly 
recommending to that body a declaration of war 
against Great Britain. The principal grounds 
for this measure, as staled in the message, were 
the searching of American vessels by ihe British ; 



Questions. — 2. What is said of the custom ? What was there 
reason to believe? 3. Who succeeded Mr. Jefferson ? What did 
the President do? What did the British still continue? 4. In 
1812, what did Mr. Madison do? What were the grounds of the 
war? 



War with England. 167 

the blockading of the ports of the enemies ; 
and the suspicion that the Indians had been 
instigated to acts of hostilities by British agents. 

5. The first operation after the declaration of 
war was an expedition against Canada. This 
expedition was conducted by General Hull, who, 
on the 16th of August, disgracefully surrendered 
his whole army into the hands of the British. 
Hull was afterwards tried and found guilty of 
cowardice and neglect of duty, and was con- 
demned to be shot ; but on account of his age, 
and the services he had rendered during the 
Revolution, he was recommended to mercy, and 
the punishment of death was withdrawn by the 
President. 

6. The 19th of August of that year is memo- 
rable for the action between the American frigate 
Conslitulion and the British frigate Guerriere. 
The Constitution was commanded by Captain 
Hull, and the Guerriere by Captain Dacres ; and 
after an action of only twenty minutes, the 
Guerriere struck her colors and yielded to Hull. 
The loss of the Guerriere was fifteen killed and 
.sixty-four wounded ; and that of the Constitution 
was seven killed and seven wounded. 



Questions.— 5. What was the first operation ? What is said of 
General Hull? What was afterwards done with him? C. What 
took place on the 19th of August? Who commanded the 
Constitution? The Guerriere? What was the loss on both 
sides ? 



168 United States. 



■ 



7. In October, the frigate United States, com- 
manded by Captain Decatur, took the British 
frigate Macedonia ; and in the following month, 
the British sloop Frolic was captured by the 
Wasp, commanded by Captain Jones. 

8. During the year 1813, the war was attended 
with various success. In the early part of the 
year, Canada was again invaded by a detachment k 
of men under General Winchester, but they 
were defeated by the British and Indians, near 
Frenchtown, and the greater part of those who 
surrendered to the enemy were inhumanely 
massacred by the savages. 

9. In April, another attempt at the reduction 
of Canada was made, under General Pike ; 
York, the capital of Upper Canada, was taken, 
but the brave and heroic Pike was killed, in 
the moment of victory, by the explosion of a 
magazine. 



Questions. — 7. What took place in October? 8. In 1813, what is 
said of the war? By wliom was Canada again invaded? What is 
said of those who surrendered ? 9. In April, what was done ? 
What was talien ? What was killed ? 



War wjth England. 169 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

Perry's Victory — Battle ob" the Thames 
— Battle op Lundy's Lane — Battle of 
Bladensburg — Battle of North Point — 
Battle of New Orleans. 

1. One of the most brilliant achievements of 
the war was Perry's victory upon Lake Erie. 
His little fleet consisted of nine small vessels, 
carrying only fifty-four guns, while the English 
squadron numbered six ships, carrying sixty- 
three guns. In the early part of the engage- 
ment, the flag ship of Perry suffered severely, 
and was in a sinking condition, when the gallant 
Perry, seizing his flag and waving it in the breeze, 
leaped into an open boat, and passed, amidst a 
shower of balls, to another of his vessels. 

2. The battle now raged with redoubled fury ; 
but after a tremendous conflict of three hours, 
victory declared in favor of the Americans ; the 
stars and stripes floated in triumph over the 
wreck of the British squadron. 

3. After this victory. General Harrison em- 
barked his forces and landed on the Canada 



Questions. — 1. What was the most brilliant achievement? In 
the early part of the action what took place ? What did Perry do? 

2. What is now said of the battle? Of the stars and stripes? 

3. What did General Harrison do? 

15 



IT'O United States. 

shore, and, on (he 5th of October, defeated the 
British under General Proctor, in the battle of 
the Thames. In this battle, the celebrated In- 
dian chief Tecumseh was killed by Colonel 
Johnson. 

4. 1814. One of the best contested battles 
that occurred during the war, was that of Lundy's 
Lane, which took place near Niagara Falls, and 
on that account is sometimes called the battle of 
Niagara. The Americans were commanded by 
General Brown, and General Scott^ who was then 
second in comiuand. 

5. The battle commenced about sundown, 
and raged with terrific fury until midnight. The 
British fouglit with desperation, and often charged 
the Americans with the point of the bayonet ; 
but they were bravely repulsed, and finally 
driven from every position, leaving the Ameri- 
cans in quiet possession of the field. In this 
battle, Generals Brown and Scott were both 
wounded, and the command devolved on Gen- 
eral Ripley. 

6. In Septetnber of this year, a combined 
attack was made on Plattsburg by the British 
squadron, commanded by Commodore Downie, 



Questions. — 3. What battle did he gain ? Who was killed in this 
battle? 4. What was one of the best contested battles ? By whom 
were the Americans commanded? 5. What is said of the battle? 
The British? Who were wounded? 6. What was done in Sep- 
tember ? 



War with England. 171 

and a land force under Sir George Provost. The 
naval force was completely destroyed by the 
American fleet commanded by Commodore 
McDonough. During the engagement of the 
fleets the British were eflfectually repulsed in 
their attack on the forts of Plattsburg by the 
Americans under the command of General 
Macomb. 

7. The tide of victory which had attended the 
American army during this year, met with a mo- 
mentary check in the unfortunate battle of Bla- 
densburg. In the month of August, a British 
fleet entered the Chesapeake and landed a force 
of six thousand men under the command of 
General Ross, on the banks of the Patuxent, 
about forty miles from the city of Washington. 
At Bladensburg they were met by the Americans 
under General Winder ; but at the commence- 
ment of the battle the militia disgracefully fled, 
leaving Commodore Barney and his small band 
of marines to sustain the whole weight of the 
conflict. 

8. Barney bravely maintained his position 
until he was wounded and taken prisoner. After 
this battle, the British proceeded to Washington, 
burnt the capitol, the President's house, and 

Questions.— 6. What is said of the naval forces ? During the en- 
gagement, what took place? 7. What is said of the tide of vic- 
tory? In August, what took place? At Bladensburg? 8. What 
is said of Barney ? After the battle what did the British do ? 



172 United States. 

other public buildings, and then retired without 
molestation. 

9. A few weeks after this event, a combined 
attack was made upon the city of Baltimore by 
a British fleet of fifty sail under Admiral Coch- 
rane, and a land force of seven thousand men 
under the command of General Ross. On the 
morning of the 12th of September, they landed 
at North Point, where they were met by General 
Strieker, at the head of three thousand five 
hundred men. As the British were advancing, 
General Ross was shot through the breast by 
one of the American riflemen, and falling in the 
arms of his aid-de-camp, he expired in a few 
minutes. 

10. The command then devolved on Colonel 
Brook, who led on the attack. General Strieker, 
after maintaining his position for an hour and a 
half against great superiority of numbers, retired 
to Worthingion Mills. In the meantime, a 
furious assault was made on Fort McHenry by 
the British squadron ; but finding all their at- 
tempts fruitless, they abandoned their designs, 
and the fleet, taking on board the land forces, 
moved down the bay. 

11. The last important event of the war was 

Questions. — 9. After this, what was done ? On the 12th of Sep- 
tember, what did they do ? As they were advancing, what took 
place? 10. On whom did the command devolve? What is said 
of General Strieker? What place was assaulted, &c. ? 11. What 
was the last important event ? 



War with England. 173 

the battle of New Orleans. The British, under 
the command of General Packenham, sailed up 
the Mississippi, and landed nine miles below the 
city ; Jackson attacked them on the next day, 
Dec. 23d, but the British troops maintained their 
position, although suflfering heavy loss. The 
Americans fell back, on the next morning, to 
their main line of entrenchments, two miles 
nearer to the city. They had fortified this po- 
sition with bales of cotton. 

12. The British attacked with artillery on the 
28th, but were repulsed with a loss of one 
hundred and twenty men. Another attack, made 
on the 1st of January, was as fruitless, and Gen- 
eral Packenham resolved to wait for reinforce- 
ments. These arrived on the 6th, and on the 
8th, at break of day, the British army, 14.000 
strong, charged in two divisions upon the Ameri- 
can entrenchments defended by six thousand 
patriots. Packenham was killed, and Generals 
Kean and Gibbs were wounded. The assailants, 
thrice repulsed, fled in disorder, leaving upon the 
field seven hundred dead and fourteen hundred 
wounded. Five hundred were taken prisoners. 
As incredible as it may appear, the loss of the 
Americans was only seven killed and six wounded. 

Questions— 11. What is said of the British, &c.? 12. What did 
Jaclvson do? On the 8th of January, 1815, what toolc place? 
How many did they leave dead, &c.? What was the American's 
loss? 

15* 



174 United States. 



1 



13. On the 24th of December, of the previous 
year, a treaty of peace had been signed at Ghent, 
between the United States and Great Britain ; 
and the news of this treaty, arriving shortly after 
the battle of New Orleans, put an end to further 
hostilities. 

14. In 1817, Mr. James Monroe succeeded Mr. 
Madison in the office of President ; and in 1825 
John Q,uincy Adams succeeded Mr. Monroe. 
During the administration of Mr. Adams, Gen- 
eral Lafayette paid a visit to the United States. 
In 1829, Mr. Adams was succeeded by General 
Jackson, who filled the office of President until 
1837, when he was succeeded by Martin Van 
Buren. 

15. In 1S41, General Harrison was elected 
President of the United States, but died on the 
4th of April after his inauguration, leaving the 
office to the Vice President, John Tyler. Mr. 
Tyler was succeeded by James K. Polk. 



Questions. — 13. On the 24th of December, what took place? 

What is said of the news of this treaty? 14. Who succeeded Mr. 
Madison, and Mr. Monroe ? In 1825, what took place? Who suc- 
ceeded Mr. Adams? 15. In 1841, what took place? Who suc- 
ceeded Mr. Tyler? 



THE WAR WITH MEXICO. 



CHAPTER XXX. 

The Causes op the War — The Battle op 
Palo Alto — Battle op Resaca de la Pal- 
MA — Battle op Monterey — Battle of 
BuENA Vista. 

1. The principal cause of the war with 
Mexico, was the admission of Texas into the 
Union, which took place on the 29th of Decem- 
ber, 1845. Texas, formerly a Mexican state, 
had revoked against the power of Mexico, and 
in 1836 established her independence. 

2. The boundary between the two republics 
had never been settled. Texas held the Rio 
Grande, from its source to its mouth, to be the 
boundary line between the two countries, whil^ 
Mexico regarded the river Nueces as the bound- 
ary, and claimed the territory between the two 
rivers. Such was the state of things when 
Texas was admitted into the Union. 



Questions.— 1. What was the principal cause, &c.? What is said 
j of Texas ? 2. What is said of the boundary ? What did Texas 
hold ? What did Mexico regard ? 

175 



176 United States. 

3. The United States having admitted Texas 
with the Rio Grande as her southern boundary, 
claimed the disputed territory, and, of necessity, 
became bound to settle the difficulty with the 
government of Mexico. Mexico still maintained 
her right to the territory between the two rivers, 
and began to make preparations to invade the 
country. 

4. On receiving intelligence of this, Mr. Polk, 
who had lately been raised to the office of Presi- 
dent, directed General Taylor to take up some 
convenient position beyond the river Nueces, in 
order to repel any invasion on the part of Mexico. 
Accordingly, General Taylor crossed the Nueces, 
and took up a position at Point Isabel. Leaving 
a garrison at this place, he moved south to the 
banks of the Rio Grande, and erected a fort, 
called Fort Brown, opposite Matamoras, a town 
on the Mexican side of the river. 

5. In the early part of May, General Taylor, 
leaving a small force at Fort Brown, returned to j 
Point Isabel. During his absence, a furious at- * 
(ack was made on Fort Brown by the Mexicans 
under General Arista. On receiving intelligence 
of this. General Taylor immediately commenced t 
his march back to Fort Brown, and on the 8th of 

Questions. — 3 What is said of the United States? Of Mexico? ' 
4. What did Mr. Polk direct? What did General Taylor do? i 
Where did he proceed and erect? 5. In May, what did General 
Taylor do? During his absence, what took place? On the 8th of ^ 
May, what did he meet ? 



War with Mexico. 177 

May he was met by the enemy, drawn up in 
order of battle, at a point called Palo Alto. 

6. A furious battle ensued, in which the 
Mexicans w^ere defeated, with a loss of nearly 
four hundred in killed and wounded, while the 
loss on the side of the Americans was nine killed 
and forty-two wounded. Among the slain on 
the part of the Americans was the brave and la- 
mented Ringgold. While Ringgold was advan- 
cing furiously to the charge, he was struck by a 
cannon ball, which killed his horse and inflicted 
on himself a mortal wound. General Taylor 
and his litde army encamped upon the field of 
battle, surrounded by m^ny of their fallen com- 
panions, while the groans of the dying, and the 
shrieks of the wounded of the enemy, broke the 
stillness of the midnight air. 

7. 'On the following morning, General Taylor 
marched forward towards Fort Brown ; and 
having arrived within about three miles of the 
fort, he met with the enemy, who occupied 
a strong position at a place called Resaca de 
la Palma. The battle was commenced on 
both sides with the most determined bravery, 
and for some time maintained with equal suc- 
cess. 

Questions. — 6. What ensued? What was the number of the 
killed and wounded on both sides ? Who was among the slain? 
What did General Taylor and his army do? 7. Where did he 
meet the enemy ? What is said of the battle ? 



178 United States. 

8. In a few hours, however, the contest was 
decided ; the Mexicans were routed, and fled 
with precipitation to the river, leaving the whole 
of their artillery, and two thousand stands of 
arms, together with the private papers of General 
Arista, in the hands of the Americans. This 
battle is memorable for the desperate charge of 
Colonel May. May, with his troops, charged up 
to the very mouth of the enemy's cannon, drove 
the men from the guns, captured their battery, 
and took General La Vega prisoner. 

9. A few da3^s after this battle. General Taylor 
entered Matamoras without opposition. Scarcity 
of supplies, and the want of sufficient forces with 
which to follow up his successes, compelled him 
to remain inactive in that town for a considerable 
time. Meanwhile, a large Mexican force had 
collected at Monterey, the capital of New Leon, 
under the command of General Ampudia. 

10. On the Tth of September, the American 
army of six thousand men left Matamoras, and 
on the 19th encamped under the very walls of 
Monterey, then fortified and defended by a gar- 
rison of ten thousand men. On the morning of 
the 21st, General Taylor ordered an attack. The 

Questions. — 8. What is said of the Mexicans? What did they 
leave? For what is it memorable ? What did May do ? 9. After 
this battle, what did General Taylor do? Here, what is said? 
Where had they collected? 10. On the 7th of September, wliat 
took place? On the 21st, what did General Taylor order? 



War with Mexico. 179 

Americans were led to the charge by Generals 
Twiggs, Worth, and other distinguished officers ; 
and after an obstinate contest of nearly three 
days, the city yielded to the valor of the Ameri- 
cans. The battle was attended with a severe loss 
on both sides. The Americans lost one hundred 
and twenty-six killed and about three hundred 
and fifty wounded, and among the killed was 
the lamented Colonel Watson. The Mexican 
loss was estimated at one thousand men, in killed 
and wounded. 

11. Nothing of importance occurred frotn this 
period until the return of the following spring. 
In the early part of February, General Taylor 
moved towards the south with a force of about 
five thousand men, and finally took up a position 
at a place called Buena Vista, a few miles from 
Saltillo. Here, on the 22d of February, he was 
met by a Mexican army of twenty thousand men, 
under command of their renowned leader, Gen- 
eral Santa Anna^, and on the following morning 
the memorable battle of Buena Vista took place. 

12. Long and bloody was the contest ; at one 
time our httle army seemed as if nothing could 
save it from destruction ; again the tide of victory 

Questions. — 10. By whom were the Americans led, <fec. ? What 
is said of the oity? What was the loss on both sides? 11. In 
February, what did General Taylor do ? On the 22d, by what was 
he met? What took place? 12. What is said of the contest? At 
one time what is said of our army ? Again of the tide of victory ? 



180 United States. 

rolled back the advancing foe ; at last the cour- 
age and skill of the Mexicans yielded to the valor 
of Ihe Americans : the shout of victory re-echoed 
through the hills and valleys of Buena Vista, 
The next day, the Mexican army retired to San 
Louis Potosi, leaving behind them hundreds of 
their dead and dying. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 



The Reduction of Vera Cruz— The Battle 
OF Cero Gordo — The Battle of Contre- 
ras — The Surrender of the City op 
Mexico. 

1. On the 23d of November, General Scott 
received orders from the Secretary of War to re- 
pair to Mexico and take the command of the 
troops there assembled. The first operation of 
General Scott, after reaching Mexico, was the 
reduction of the city of Vera Cruz. 

2. On the 22d of March, 1847, General Scott 
and his army stood before the city of Vera Cruz j 
but before commencing operations, he sent a 
summons to the Mexican commander to sur- 



QuESTiONS. — 12. At length what is said ? What did tlie Mexicans 
do? 1. On the 23d of November what took pb^ce? What was his 
first operation ? 2. On the 22d of March, what took place? But 
before operations, what did lie do ? 



War with Mexico. 181 

render the city. The summons was rejected, 
and the American batteries immediately opened 
a destructive fire upon the city. The canona- 
ding continued from this time until the morning 
of the 26th, when the city, and the famous castle 
of San Juan de Ulloa, surrendered to General 
Scott. 

3. After the reduction of Vera Cruz, General 
Scott commenced his march, with about six 
thousand men, towards the city of Mexico, the 
capital of the republic. At Cerro Gordo he was 
met by a Mexican force of fifteen thousand men 
under the command of General Santa Anna. 
An obstinate battle followed, in which the Mexi- 
cans were defeated, with a loss of one thousand 
two hundred in killed and wounded, and three 
thousand prisoners. The American loss was 
sixty-three killed, and tliree hundred and eighty- 
six wounded. 

4. On the 19th of April General Worth en- 
tered the city of Jalapa, and on the 22d took 
possession of the city and castle of Perote ; and 
on the following day he occupied the city of 
Puebla, where General Scott remained for the 
greater part of the summer. 

5. In the early part of August, General Scott 

Questions. — 2. On the 26th, what took place ? 3. After this, what 
did General Scott do ? At Cerro Gordo, what did he meet ? What 
followed ? What was the American loss ? 4. On the 19th of April^ 
what took place ? On the 22d, &c. ? 5. In August, what did Scott do? 

16 



182 United States. 

resumed his march towards the city of Mexico. 
He met with but little interruption until he 
reached Conireras,an eminence strongly fortified, 
about fifteen miles from that city. At this place 
a furious battle took place, which terminated in 
favor of the Ainericans. 

6. After this battle, our forces passed rapidly 
on to Churubusco. At this point, the main body 
of the Mexican army, to the number of twenty- 
seven thousand men, under the command of 
Santa Anna, had taken up its position, resolved 
lo make a desperate stand to save the capital. 
About noon, on the 20th of August, the battle 
commenced, and after a terrific conflict of three 
hours the scale of victory turned in favor of the 
Americans. 

7. After taking Molino del Rey, or the King's 
Mill, and several other important and strongly 
fortified places, General Scott arrived wilh his 
army on the 14lh of September at the very gates 
of tlie renowned city of the Moniezumas. The 
city surrendered ; and on the following morning, 
at 7 o'clock, the star spangled banner floated in 
triumph over the capital of the Mexican Repub- 
lic. A treaty of peace between the United States 

Questions. — 5. What place did he reach ? What took place ? 
6. What did our forces do? At this point what is related? On 
the 20th of August what took place? 7. After taking Molino del 
Rey, &c., what did Scott do ? What is said of the city, &c. Of th« 
treaty of peace ? 



War with Mexico. 183 

and Mexico was shortly afterwards signed, and 
the hostilities between the two nations were hap- 
pily terminated. By this treaty, Mexico ceded 
to the United States the territories of Upper 
California and New Mexico, receiving in pay- 
ment thereof fifteen millions of dollars, besides 
some three millions of American claims assumed 
by our government. 

8. General Taylor was elected to the Presi- 
dency at the first election that followed the ter- 
mination of the war ; but he died soon after his 
inauguration, and was succeeded by the Vies 
President, Millard Fillmore. In 1853, Frank- 
lin Pierce was elected President. He was suc- 
ceeded, in 1857, by James Buchanan. 



Questions.— 8. Who was elected President after the war with 
Mexico ? Who suooeeded President Taylor ? Fillmore ? 



AMERICAlvr CIVIL WAR. 



CHAPTER XXXII. 

Causes of the War — Its Struggles 
AND Results. 

1. In November, I860, Abraham Lincoln was 
elected President, to succeed James Buchanan, 
being the first successsful candidate of the Re- 
publican or Anti-Slavery party. 

2. The question of slavery had been, espe- 
cially during the last administration, the cause 
of much angry discussion. The slave-holding 
States of the South felt greatly alarmed by this 
election of an abolitionist, and demanded guaran- 
tees for the preservation of their constitutional 
rights. Failing to obtain this, the Representa- 
tives of these States withdrew from the Legisla- 
tive halls, and their States, respectively, passed 
ordinances of secession, by which they withdrew 
from the Federal compact. 

Questions.— 1. Who was elected President in 18G0? 2, What fol- 
lowed? 

184 



American Civil War. 185 

3. The seceding- States, to wit: South Caro- 
lina, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, 
Louisiana; and Texas, sent delegates to a Con- 
vention, which met in Montgomery (Alabama,) 
and organized the provisional government of 
*'The Confederate States op America." 
Jefferson Davis of Mississippi, a distinguished 
statesman and soldier, was elected Provisional 
President. 

4. When Mr. Lincoln took his oath of office, 
on the 4th of March, 1861, the Southern Con- 
federacy was already organized, and claimed to 
be a separate and distinct government from that 
of the LFnited States. Virginia, North Carolina, 
Tennessee, and Arkansas, successively passed 
ordinances of secession, and joined the new con- 
federacy. 

5. The first gun was fired on the 12th of 
April, 1861, by the Confederates, against Fort 
Sumter, in Charleston Harbor. The fort after a 
short but vigorous defence, was surrendered by 
its commander. Major Anderson, to the Confede- 
rate general, Beauregard. Mr. Lincoln then 
issued a proclamation, caHing for 75,000 volun- 
teers. Such was the beginning of the fearful 
civil war which was to rage for four years in the 

Questions.— 3. What action took the seceded States ? Who was 
elected President of the new confederacy ? 4. How did matters 
stand on the 4th of March ? 5, How was the war begun ? What 
did Mr. Lincoln ? 

16* 



186 United States. 

country of Washington, to end with the ruin 
of the Southern States, the sudden emancipation 
of three millions of slaves, and the creation of a 
stupendous national debt. 

6. The success of the contending armies was 
varied at first; the great battle of Manassas, gain- 
ed by the Confederates, was followed by reverses 
on other fields. The numerical superiority and 
immense resources of the Federals enabled them 
to repair their disasters promptly, and to hold 
the advantages gained ; whilst the Confederates, 
shut out from the world, and far inferior in num- 
ber to their opponents, were weakened by every 
defeat, and seldom able to reap the fruits of dear 
bought victories. 

7. Tennessee and Arkansas had never been 
wholly in the possession of the Confederaies ; 
they lost the control of the Mississippi, and part 
of Louisiana. Many of their ports were taken 
and the others blockaded by the fleets of the 
United States. From the second year of the 
war, the principal struggle was confined to Vir- 
ginia, where General Robert E. Lee had com- 
mand of the Confederate army. 

8. In the spring of 1865, the contest was de- 
cided. The Federal general, Sherman, had 
crossed, in mid-winter, the entire Slate of Geor- 

QuESTiONS.— 6. What was the success of the contending parties ? 
How did they compare? 7. What reverses befell the Confeder- 
ates ? 8. What happened in the spring of 1865 ? 



American Civil War. 187 

gia, literally cutting the confederacy in two j he 
completely devastated this section of country, the 
granary of the Souih, and destroyed the rail- 
roads, thus cutting off the supplies of the army 
of Virginia. 

9. Meanwhile, General Grant, with an over- 
whelming force, kept Lee's operations con- 
fined to the defence of. the Confederate capital, 
Richmond, and its main support, Petersburg. 
At last it became necessary to evacuate these two 
places ; but the Confederate army was too much 
exhausted and reduced in number, to accomplish 
successfully its retreat, and finally, on the 9th of 
April, 1865, General Lee surrendered the rem- 
nants of his once fine army to General Grant. 
The terms of the capitulation were that (he men 
should lay down their arms, and retire to their 
homes, on their parole not to engage into any 
acts of hostility until duly exchanged. 

10. General Joseph E. Johnston, command- 
ing in Georgia, surrendered his army to General 
Sherman upon similar conditions. The sub- 
mission of the whole South was the immediate 
result of these surrenders. 

11. Almost simultaneously with these im- 
portant events, another occurred, without prece- 
dent in the annals of this country, which cast a 

Questions.— 9. Where was General Grant? What became neces- 
sary, and what followed ? What were the terms of surrender ? 
10. What other general surrendered ? 11. What happened on the 
13th of April? 



188 United States. 



1 



gloom over the nation : on the 13th of April, 
1865, President Lincoln was assassinated at the 
theatre, in Washington city. 

12. Mr. Lincoln had quite recently been re- 
elected for a second term of office. After his 
death, the Presidency devolved upon the Vice- 
President, Andrew Johnson, of Tennessee, the 
present incumbent. 

Question.— 12. "Who suecoeded to Mr. Lincoln ? 



FRANCE. 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 

The Foundation of the French Monarchy 
— the Reign of Clovis — Pepin — Char- 
lemagne . 

1. The kingdom of France was founded by 
some warlike tribes from the northern parts of 
Germany, who crossed into Gaul towards the 
middle of the third century. From their name, 
Franks, which means free-men^ ihe country was 
called France. 

2. The Frank kings were military chieftains, 
who had distinguished themselves. The third 
of these kings was Merovee, who defeated the 
terrible Attila, king of the Huns, surnamed ** the 
scourge of God. " Merovee gave his name to the 
first race of French kings, the Merovingians, and 
after him the crown became hereditary. His son, 
Childeric succeeded him on (he throne. About 

I the year 481, Clovis, the son of Childeric, became 

Questions. — 1. What is said of the inhabitants? 2. About the 
r year 481, what did Clovis become ? 

189 



190 France. 

king of the Franks, and is generally regarded a'3 
the founder of the. French Monarchy. 

3. Clotilda, the wife of Ciovis, was a Christian, 
and through her means Ciovis and many of his 
subjects embraced Christianity. It is related 
that at the battle of Tolbiac, the Franks had 
suffered terribly, and were already wavering, 
when Ciovis, raising his arms to heaven, ex- 
claimed, '* God of Clotilda, give me victory, 
and I shall serve thee !" Rallying his troops, 
he led them to the charge and won the day. 
The king kept his vow, and was baptized by St. 
Remy, Archbishop of Reims. Ciovis made Paris 
the seat of his government, and after a long and 
prosperous reign, he left his kingdom divided be- 
tween his four sons, A.D. 511. 

4. About the middle of the eighth century, a 
revolution took place, and Pepin, surnamed the 
Short, was raised to the French throne. Twenty- 
two Merovingian kings had reigned. It hap- 
pened at this time that the Lombards, who were 
already masters of the greater part of Italy, ex- 
tended their ravages to the very walls of Rome. 
In his distress. Pope Stephen applied for assist- 
ance to the king of France. 

5. Pepin immediately crossed the Alps, de- 
feated the Lombards, and obliged them to submit 

Questions. — 3. What is said of Clotilda? To whom did he leavo 
his kingdom ? 4. In the eighth century, what took place ? 5. What 
did Pepin do ? 



France. 191 

to humiliating terms of peace. Shortly after this, 
the Lombards again commenced hostilities, and 
Pepin a second time defeated them, and solemnly 
bestowed on Pope Stephen and his successors in 
the pontifical chair his conquests in Italy. It was 
by this means that the head of the Christian 
Church was raised to the dignity of a temporal 
prince. 

6. Pepin was succeeded by his son Charle- 
magne, or Charles the Great. Charles is said to 
have been seven feet in height, of a robust and 
majestic appearance. He was eminent as a 
statesman, and as a warrior he far surpassed all 
the sovereigns of his age. He was frugal in his 
diet and plain in his dress, and took particular 
delight in appearing ornamented with the pro- 
ductions of his wife and daughters, who were 
usually employed at their needles. 

7. Charlemagne was the patron of sciences 
and letters, and liked to be surrounded by wise 
and learned men. He founded several public 
schools, and delighted in examining personally 
into the progress of the scholars. This wise sov- 
ereign bequeathed to his people a code of laws 
or ordinances, admired to this day, under the 
name of '^ Capitularies of Charlemagne.''^ He 

Questions.— 5. What did the Lombards do ? By whom were they 
again defeated? What followed? 6. By whom was Pepin suc- 
ceeded ? What is said of Charles ? His diet, dress, &c. ? 7. How 
did Charlemagne protect science and encourage learning ? What 
code ot laws did he frame? 



192 France. 

gave his name to the second race of French 
kings, the Carlovingians. 

8. He died in 814, in the seventy- first year of 
his age, and forty-seventh of bis reign. His son, 
Louis the First, succeeded to the throne. The 
reign of this monarch was rendered unhappy by 
the unnatural rebellion of bis sons. The un- 
grateful children twice dethroned their father, 
and again restored him to the throne. After the 
death of Louis, which took place in 840, the 
most bitter contention broke out between his 
three sons, and thousands of their unhappy sub- 
jects were slaughtered in the ruinous wars that 
followed. 

9. Nothing of any particular interest occurred 
until the race of Charlemagne became extinct, 
after thirteen kings had reigned, and the Cape- 
tian race of kings succeeded, A.D. 987. 

Questions. — 8. When did he die? By whom was he succeeded ? 
What is said of his reign? After his death, what took place 
9. When did Charlemagne's race become extinct? 



France. 193 



CHAPTER XXXIY. 

The Capetian Race op Kings— From 
A.D. 987 TO 1328. 

1. The first king" of this name was Hugh 
Capet. He was an able sovereign, and his ad- 
ministration was directed with wisdom and 
moderation. He never assumed the ensigns of 
royalty, and even on great occasions he appeared 
in a plain and simple dress. 

2. Few evenis of importance occur in the 
history of France from the reign of Hugh Capet 
until the reign of Philip the First, who ascended 
the throne in 1080. During the reign of this 
prince, France was invaded by William the Con- 
queror, of England, an event which laid the 
foundation of that long continued rivalship, 
which, for several succeeding centuries, existed 
between England and France. This reign is 
also distinguished by the preaching of the first 
Crusade by Peter the Hermit. 

3. Philip was succeeded by his son Louis VI, 
an able and accomplished sovereign, who enjoyed 

Questions.— 1. Who was the first king of this race? What is 
said of him? What did he never assume? 2, What is said of 
the event, and who succeeded in 1080? By whom was France 
invaded? By what was his reign also distingui'shed ? 3. By 
whom was Philip succeeded ? 

17 



194 France. 

a prosperous and useful reign. At the close of 
his life, when he found that death was approach- 
ing, he called his son, who was to succeed him, 
and addressed him in these words : ^' My son, 
remember that royalty is nothing more than a 
public charge, of which you must render a strict 
account to Him who makes kings and will judge 
them." 

4. Philip the Second, surnamed Augustus, 
succeeded to the throne in llbO. The reign of 
Philip was distinguished for military skill and 
enterprise. He joined Richard the First, of 
England, in the third Crusade to Palestine. 
France was invaded by John, king of England, 
in conjunction whh the Emperor of Germany, 
but their immense array was entirely defeated by 
Philip, at Bouvines. 

5. Philip died in 1223, and was succeeded on 
the throne by his son Louis VHT, who, after a 
short reign of three years, left his crown and 
throne to his son Louis IX. This prince, com- 
motdy called Saint Louis, was only twelve years 
of age, when he ascended the throne, and during 
his minority, his mother, Blanche of Castile, 
filled the office of regent. 

Questions. — 3. At the close of his life, how did he address his 
son? 4. Who succeeded? How was his reign distinguished? 
Who succeede,d ? What is said of his reign ? Whom did he join ? 
What is said of France ? 5. By whom was he succeeded ? To 
whom did he leave the throne ? 



France. 195 

6. In the person of Saint Louis were united 
all those eminent qualities that distinguish an 
illustrious sovereign, with all the virtues that 
adorn a Christian. Every action of his life was 
distinguished for benevolence, piety, and purity 
of intention. His illustrious and pious mother 
watched over his infancy and youth with the 
most tender solicitude, and endeavored, by word 
and example, to instil into his youthful mind 
sentiments of piety and religion. 

7. Frequently she would say to him : ^^ My 
son, I love you devotedly ; but I would prefer to 
follow you to the silent tomb, rather than hear 
that you had committed one mortal sin.^^ O, 
beautiful example of true Christian virtue! 
May the mothers of our country inculcate the 
same maxims to their children ; and may 
children, from the example of the youthful 
Louis, listen with docility to the advice of their 
parents. 

8. In the early part of his reign, France was 
invaded by Henry the Third of England ; but 
he was signally defeated by Saint Louis, near 
Tailleburg,and finally compelled to sign a treaty 
of peace. The deplorable condition of Pales- 
tine deeply afflicted the generous soul of St, 
Louis, and prompted him to engage in two dis- 

Qqestions. — 6. What is said of St. Louis ? What did his mother 
do? 7. What would she frequently say to him ? 8. In the early- 
part of his reign, what took place ? What afflicted his soul ? 



^^^ France. 

asfrous crusades, in the second of which he died 
of fever, near Tunis, in the fifiy-sixth year of 
his age, and forty-fourth of his reign, A.D. 1270. 

9. In 1285, the throne of France was occu- 
pied by Phihp the Fourth, the grandson of 
Saint Louis. The reign of this monarch is ren- 
dered memorable for the trial of the Knights 
Templars, and the suppression of their order. 
The Knights Templars were a military order, 
instituted at Jerusalem for the purpose of defend- 
ing the Christians of the Holy Land against the 
attacks of the Infidels. They occupied a build- 
ing in the city which stood near the site of Solo- 
mon's Temple, from which the order derived its 
name. 

10. Charges of the greatest magnitude were 
brought against the order, and a committee was 
appointed in Paris, before which a great number 
of the knights were examined ; all, with the ex- 
ception of three, acknowledged that they were 
guilty of the denial of Christ, of sacrilege, and 
many other enormous crimes. 

11. But as the persons accused belonged to an 
order which was religious as well as military, it 
became necessary to refer the afTair to the ec- 



QuESTioNS— 8. How did he die? 9. Who succeeded ? For what 
is his reign memorable? Who were the Knights Templars? 
From what is their name derived ? 10. What was brought against 
them ? Of what did they confess themselves guilty ? 11. Wliat is 
said of the persons accused? 



Prance. 197 

clesiastical aiuhoriiies. Accordingly, a general 
council was convened at Vienne, before which 
the investigation of the conduct of the Templars 
was laid. The examination into the affair had 
already occupied nearly five years, and now, 
after a deliberation of four months more, the 
order was suppressed, and the property belonging 
to it transferred to the order of the Knights Hos- 
pitallers of St. John. 



CHAPTER XXXV. 

Philip the Sixth — John the Second — 
Charles the Fifth — Charles the Sev- 
enth — The Maid of Orleans. 

1. In 1328, Philip the Sixth, the grandson of 
Philip the Third, ascended the throne. His 
succession, however, was disputed by Edward 
the Third of England, who claimed the crown 
of France in right of his mother, the daughter 
of Philip the Third. But, according to the 
laws of France, females are excluded from the 
throne, hence Philip contended that a mother 
could not transmit to her children a right which 
she never possessed. 



Questions.— 11. What was convened ? What is said of the .ex- 
amination ? 1. In 1328, what took place ? By whom was the suc- 
cession disputed ? What is said of the laws of France ? 

17# 



J 98 France. 

2. In the meantime Edward invaded France 
at the head of a powerful army, and gained the 
famous battle of Cressy, in which his eldest son, 
the Black Prince, so called from the color of his 
armor, displayed those military abilities which 
afterwards rendered him so illustrious. It was 
also at the battle of Cressy that the English first 
made use of artillery. They had four or five 
pieces of cannon, which greatly contributed to- 
wards obtaining the victory. 

3. Edward, pursuing l)is good fortune, took 
the city of Calais after an obstinate siege of 
twelve months. Enraged at the resistance 
he had met, he resolved that the inhabitants 
should atone for the courage and resolution with 
which they had defended the city, by the sacri- 
fice of the lives of six of their most illustrious 
companions. He therefore added to the terms of 
surrender, that six of the chief citizens should 
come forth, with ropes about their necks, to pre- 
sent to him the keys of the city and castle. 

4. The news of this decree spread consterna- 
tion among the inhabitants ; but the fearful 
gloom was dispelled by the noble patriotism of 
Eustace Saint Pierre, and his five coinpanions, 
who'oflfered themselves as victims to appease the 



Questions. — 2. "What did Edward do and gain? What did the 
English use for the first time in this battle? 3. What is said of 
Edward ? What did he resolve ? What did he add, &c. ? 4. What 
is said of the news of this decree? 



Prance. 199 

anger of the British monarch. The six patriots, 
attended by the governor and rnan}^ of the most 
distinguished citizens of Calais, presented them- 
selves at the Enghsh camp and delivered the 
keys to Edward. 

5. The English barons, moved at the sight, 
entreated the monarch to spare the lives of the 
citizens ; but the king appeared inflexible, and 
ordered their immediate execution. At this mo- 
ment, Clueen Phillippa, who had just arrived 
from England, entered his apartment, and threw 
herself at the feet of her royal husband, and by 
her tears and supplications prevailed upon him to 
revoke his sentence, and to spare the lives of the 
unfortunate victims. The city of Calais re- 
mained from this time in possession of the British 
for more than two himdred years. 

6. Philip died in 1350, leaving the throne to 
his son John the Second, surnamed the Good. 
During the reign of ihis king, France was again 
invaded by Edward the Third of England. 
Edward, the Black Prince, son of the English 
monarch, commanded the British army, and 
gained over the French the memorable battle of 
Poictiers, at which John, the French king, was 



Questions.— 4. What did the six companions do? 5. What is 
said of the Barons? The King? Of Queen Phillippa? How long 
did Calais remain in the hands of the British? 6. When did 
Philip die ? During his reign, what is said of France ? What is 
said of Edward the Black Prince ? Of John ? 



^00 France. | 

I 

taken prisoner, and afterwards led captive to I 
London . 

7. After remaining in captivity for some time, 
John obtained his release on condition that he 
should pa}^ the sum of one million five hundred 
thousand pounds sterling as the price of his ran- 
som. But on his return to Prance, finding him- 
self unable to comply with his engagement, he 
returned to England, saying that, *^ If honor 
were banished from every other place, it should 
find an asylum in the breasts of kings." He 
was received with every mark of respect by Ed- 
ward, and died in captivity, A.D. 1364. 

8. On the death of John, Charles the Fifth, 
surnamed the Wise, succeeded to the throne. 
He labored to retrieve the losses, and to remove 
the evils that had befallen the kingdom during 
the preceding reign. In this he was successful, 
and in the space of five years the English were 
deprived of all their possessions in France, except 
Calais and a few other places. Besides being an 
able statesinan, Charles was a distinguished pa- 
tron of literature. His library contained nine 
hundred volumes, which was a considerable 
number for that period, as the art of printing 
was yet undiscovered. 

Questions.— 7. What did John obtain ? What is related, on his 
return to France ? What did he say ? 8. Who succeeded John ? 
What is said of him ? Of what was he the patron ? What is said 
of his library ? 



France. 201 

9. Charles the Sixth ascended the throne in 
1380. The reign of this prince was very unfor- 
tunate. He fell into a state of insanity, which 
rendered him incapable of attending to the affairs 
of government. Regents were appointed, whose 
misconduct threw the kingdom into civil war. 
Taking advantage of these calamities, Henry the 
Fifth, king of England, invaded France, and 
gained the memorable battle of Agincourt. 

10. After this victory a treaty was concluded, 
by which the French promised the throne to 
Henry on the death of Charles. Henry and 
Charles both died shortly after this event, A. D. 
1422. 

11. Charles the Seventh, surnamed the Victo- 
rious, asserted his right to the throne of his father, 
whilst the infant Henry the Sixth was proclaimed 
King of France, under the regency of his uncle, 
the Duke of Bedford. War ensued between the 
two nations, and the English invaded the coun- 
try and laid siege to the city of Orleans. When 
the place was reduced to the last extremity, and 
on the point of yielding, it was delivered through 
the courage of the renowned heroine, Joan of 
Arc. 



Questions. — 9. Who succeeded to the throne ? What is said of 
his reign ? Into what did he fall ? What did Henry the fifth do ? 
10. After this battle, what took place ? What is said of Henry and 
Charles ? 11. What did Charles the seventh do ? What did the 
English do ? What is said of the place ? 



202 P^'rance. 

12. Joan was a young girl, about seventeen 
years of age, who had hved an humble life in a 
village on the borders of Lorraine. When the 
hope of saving Orleans was almost abandoned, 
she presented herself to the governor, and told 
him, with all the appearance of youthful sin- 
cerity, that she had been divinely commissioned 
to raise the siege of that city, and to procure the 
coronation of Charles in the city of Rheims. 

13. After undergoing a rigid examination 
before a committee appointed for that purpose, 
and also before the court and the king himself, it 
was generally admitted I hat her mission was 
supernatural. She accordingly received the ar- I 
mor of a knight, and was entrusted with the I 
liberation of Orleans. As she approached the ^ 
city, her presence inspired the inhabitants with 
confidence, while it spread dismay among the 
English, who hastily abandoned the siege, and 
retired with precipitation. They were, however, 
pursued by Joan at the head of the French army, 
and entirely defeated at Patay, with a loss of five 
thousand men, while the French lost only one of 
their number. From this event Joan was called 
the Maid of Orleans. 



Questions.— 12. What is said of Joan? To whom did she pre- 
sent herself ? What did she tell him? 13. What was admitted? 
What was intrusted to her? As she approached, what is said of 
her? By whom were they pursued? From this event what waF 
she called? 



France. 203 

14. The second part of her mission, which 
remained yet to be accomplished, was equally 
arduous and dangerous. The city of Rheims, 
and the intermediate provinces, were in the 
possession of the EngHsh and their alHes ; to 
gain admission to that city under these circum- 
stances, seemed almost impossible. Charles, 
however, placed himself under her guidance, 
commenced his march, and as he advanced, all 
obstacles disappeared, or were easily overcome ; 
the citizens of Rheims expelled the garrison, and 
received him with every demonstration of joy. 

15. Dming the coronation, Joan in her war- 
like dress, and with her banner unfurled, stood 
near the altar ; and as soon as the ceremony was 
finished, she tiirew herself upon her knees, at 
the feet of Charles, declared that her mission 
was accomplished, and, with tears in her eyes, 
begged to be allowed to return to her former 
humble station ; but the king was unwilling to 
part with her services so soon, and entreated her 
to remain for some time with the army. With 
this request she at length was prevailed upon to 
comply. 

10. Her courage always remained the same 
after this event, but her good fortune seemed 

Questions. — 14. What is said of the second part, &o. ? Of the city 
of Rheims? Of Charles? Of tlie citizens of llheims ? 15. During 
thecoronation, what is said of Joan? What did she declare? What 
did the King entreat? 16. What is said of her courage ? 



204 France. 

to forsake her. In attempting to raise the 
siege of the city of Compiegne, she fell into 
the hands of the English, who, to gratify their 
rage for the many losses they had sustained 
through her valor, condemned her under a 
charge of many pretended crimes, and caused 
her to he burned to death in the public square at 
Rouen. Such was the unhappy fate of the 
Maid of Orleans. 



CHAPTER XXXVI. 

From the Accession op Louis XII, to the 
Reign op Henry III, A.D. 1498 to 1589. 

I 1. Louis the Twelfth was a wise and popular 
sovereign, and gained the title of Father of his 
people. Being one day urged to punish those 
who had been his enemies during the preceding 
reign, he replied : " It is unworthy of the King 
of France to revenge the injuries done to the 
Duke of Orleans." He reduced Milan and 
Genoa, and for some time prosecuted his claim 
to Naples with success. 

2. At his death, he was succeeded by his 
cousin, who assumed the name of Francis the 

Questions.— 16. What happened to her ? What did tliey do with j 
her ? 1. What is said of Louis the twelfth ? Wlien urged to pun- 
ish, &c., what did he reply ? What did he reduce ? By whom was i 
he suceeded? ^ 

\ 



France. 205 

First. When Francis ascended the throne, he 
was in the flower of his age, of a romantic dispo- 
sition, and fond of military glory. On the death 
of Maximilian, emperor of Germany, Francis 
and Charles the Fifth of Spain, became rival 
candidates for the imperial throne. Charles was 
the successful candidate ; and Francis, deeming 
himself injured, declared war against his rival. 

3. Francis, unfortunately, quarreled with De 
Bourbon, one of the ablest of his generals; the 
latter basely abandoned his country and his sov- 
ereign, and offered his services to the emperor 
Charles. Bourbon commanded the Spaniards 
at the batlle of Biagrassa, in which the French 
were defeated, wilh the loss of their celebrated 
general, the illustrious Bayard, surnamed the 
*' Knight without fear^ and without reproach.^^ 
Bourbon is said to have wept like a child over 
the dying hero : ^' Weep not for me," exclaimed 
the magnanimous Bayard, " but for yourself. 1 
die in the service of my country ; you triumph 
in the ruin of yours." 

4. Francis now took upon himself the com- 
mand of the army, marched to Italy, and laid 
siege to Pavia, but was there taken prisoner by 
the imperialists under (he command of the traitor 

Questions.— 2. On the death of Maximilian, what took place? 
What did Francis do? 3. With whom did he quarrel? Whom 
did Bourbon command? What is said of Bourbon? What did 
Bayard exclaim ? What did Francis do ? 

18 



206 France. 

Bourbon. After a captivity of thirteen months, 
he regained his liberty, and having crossed the 
boundary of his own dominions, he mounted his 
horse, and waving his hat, he exclaimed, '^ I am 
yet a king !" 

5. The conditions on which he obtained his 
release were so unreasonable, that Francis re- 
fused to comply with them, and this refusal 
brought on another sanguinary contest between 
the two rivals. After the war had raged for some 
time, with but little advantage on either side, a 
truce was concluded, and Charles and Francis 
were brought to a personal interview, at a village 
on the borders of France, where the warmest 
expressions of friendship passed between them. 

6. Francis died in 1547, and was succeeded 
by his son, Henry the Second. The reign of 
this monarch was signalized b}'^ his wars with 
Charles the Fifih and his son Philip the Second, 
of Spain, and by the recovery of Calais, which 
was taken by the celebrated Duke of Guise, after 
it had remained in the possession of the English 
for two hundred and ten years. His death was 
occasioned by an accident that happened him 
at a tournament. 



Questions. — 4. How long did he remain in captivity? Having 
crossed, &c., what did he exclaim ? 5. What is said of the condi- 
tions ? What followed ? What is related of Charles and Francis ?| 
C. By whom was Francis succeeded? What is said of his reign ?i 
How was his death occasioned ? 



France. 207 

7. He was succeeded by his son Francis the 
Second, who died after a short reign of one year, 
and left the throne to his brother, Charles the 
Ninth, then a boy in the tenth year of his age. 
The reign of this prince was considerably dis- 
tracted by the civil wars that were carried on 
on account of reh'gion. During these contests, 
the Protestants Jost their most distinguished 
leader, the Prince of Oonde, who fell in battle. 
On the other hand, Charles had to lament the 
loss of the firmest support of his throne, the 
Duke of Guise, who was cut off by assassina- 
tion. At length peace was restored, and the 
Protestants obtained free toleration in religion. 

8. The most memorable transaction in the 
reign of Charles, was the massacre which took 
place on Saint Bartholomew's day. So various 
and contradictory are the accounts given of this 
event, that it is a very difficult task, at the pres- 
ent time, to arrive at the true state of the facts. 
On the occasion of the marriage of tlie sister of 
Charles, Coligni, and other Protestant leaders, 
were invited to court. It happened shortly after 
their arrival at Paris, that Coligni was severely 
wounded as he passed through the streets. 

Questions.— 7. By whom was he succeeded? What is said 
of the reign of this prince? Whom did the Protestants lose? 
What had Charles to lament? 8. What is the most memorable 
transaction of this reign? Who were invited to court? What 
(rhappened ? 



208 France. 

9. His wounds were not dangerous ; but his 
followers crowded to his residence, and their 
threats of vengeance so terrified the ministers and 
the mother of Charles, that in a secret council 
the king was prevailed upon to gi\ e his assent to 
the destruction of the leaders of the Protestant 
party. It does not appear from the close con- 
nection of events which preceded the massacre, 
that it was a studied or pre-concerted plan, and 
that the Protestant leaders were invited to the 
capital under a show of friendship, that they 
might the more easily be destroyed. It was 
rather dictated by fear and the dread of ven- 
geance. 

10. The massacre took place during the night 
of the 23d of August, and a part of the following 
day. The residence of Coligni was forced, and 
he was assassinated with several of his friends. 
The people joined in the work of death, and 
every Protestant that fell in their way was sacri- 
ficed to their fury. Although the massacre was 
only intended for the capital, yet the tragedy of 
Paris was imitated in several other cities. 

11. With regard to the number of the victims, 
it is impossible to speak with certainty. Some 
writers exaggerate the number to sixty thousand, 

Questions. — 9. What is said of his followers ? What does not 
appear, &c.? 10. When did the massacre take place? What is 
said of the people ? What is said of the number ? Of some wri— , 
ters ? 



Prance. 209 

some to ihirty, and others to twenty or fifteen 
thousand. The reformed marly rologlst adopted 
a means of ascertaining the real number, which 
may enable us to form a probable conjecture. 
He procured from the ministers in the different 
towns where the massacre took place, lists of the 
number of persons who suffered ; he published 
the list in 1582, and in all France he could dis- 
cover the names of no more than seven hundred 
and eighty-six persons. 

12. No sooner was the awful deed committed, 
than shame and remorse filled the breasts of those 
who had been the authors of it. Charles, in 
order to palliate his conduct, wrote to all the 
courts of Europe, stating, that having detected 
the Protestants in a horrid plot against his life 
and his authority, he had cut off the leaders of 
the party, and thus escaped the imminent danger 
to which he was exposed. 

13. Many of the surrounding princes, deceived 
by this statement, and being unacquainted with 
the true nature of the facts, congratulated him on 
his good fortune. Among others, Pope Gregory 
the Thirteenth, on receiving the account as given 
by Charles offered up public thanks, not indeed 
that he rejoiced in the death of the supposed 
traitors, but for the preservation, as he thought, 

Questions. — 11. How many, according to the reformed martyr- 
ologist ? 12. W^hat did Cliarles do ? 13. What is said of many 
princes ? Of Pope Gregory ? 

18* 



210 France. 



4 



of the French monarch and his kingdom from 
ruin. Charles was succeeded by his brother, 
Henry the Third, a weak and fickle prince. 
Henry was assassinated, after a short reign, by 
James Clement, a Dominican Friar, A.D. 1588. 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 

From Henry IY, to the Death of Louis 
XY.— From A.D. 1589 to 1774. 

4 

1. After the death of the late king, Henry 
the Fourth ascended the throne of France. A 
powerful faction was formed against him, but he 
completely defeated his opponents in the famous 
battle of Ivry. Henry liad been educated in the 
Protestant religion, though the Catholic religionj 
was professed by the great majority of his] 
subjects. I 

2. The king began seriously to turn his mindt 
to the subject of religion, and asked several! 
Protestant divines if he could be saved by pro-} 
fessing the Catholic doctrine, and being answered 
in the affirmative, he concluded to embrace that 

religion. Accordingly, in 1593 he abjured the i 

_ . . . I 

Questions. — 13. By whom was Charles succeeded? What was j 
his fate ? 1. Who next ascended the throne ? What was formed j 
against him ? In what had Henry been educated ? 2. To what did i 
he turn his mind ? What did he aslv ? In 1593, what did he do ? i 



France. 211 

Protestant religion, and declared himself a 

Catholic. 

I 3. Henry, having gained possession of the 

I throne, was governed by principles of the wisest 

, pohcy. By the celebrated Edict of Nantes, 

I he granted free toleration in religion to all the 

Protestants within his dominions. While he 

i by his great abilities was elevating France to 

I a high state of prosperity and happiness, he 

fell a victim to the fanaticism of a monk 

named Ravaillac. As the king rode through 

I the streets of Paris, his carriage was stopped by 

some obstruction in the way : Ravaillac, seizing 

I this favorable opportunity, mounted upon the 

wheel of the carriage, and plunged a dagger into 

Henry's breast, before any one could oppose him. 

A.D. 1610. 

4. No king has better deserved the title of 
Great, than Henry IV. Brave almost to rash- 
ness, of a fond and generous disposition, and 
great simplicity of taste, he loved his subjects as 
a father loves his children, and was ever disposed 
to clemency towards those who offended him, 
and even threatened his life. When Henry was 
besieging Paris, the inhabitants were a prey to 
all the horrors of starvation, and the city would 
have soon been compelled to surrender ; but the 

Questions. — 3. What did he grant by the edict of Nantes ? Re- 
late the manner of his death. 4. What was the character of 
Henry ? Tell us about the siege of Paris. 



212 France. 

heroic king, learning the fearful sufferings of the 
women and children, sent in provisions for the 
non-combatants. He preferred to listen tq the 
voice of humanity, and delay victory, rather than 
consult his own interests at the cost of his sub- 
jects' lives. 

5. Henry was succeeded by his son, Louis 
the Thirteenth, at the age of nine years. On 
coming of age, Louis chose for his prime minis- 
ter the celebrated Cardinal Richelieu. The 
abilities of Richelieu were conspicuous in all his 
undertakings. While he extended the glory 
of France, he became the zealous patron of 
literature, and instituted the French Academy. 
Louis died in the 34th year of his reign, A. D. 
1642. 

6. Louis the Fourteenth, surnamed Le Grand, 
or the Great, succeeded to the throne at the earl}'" 
age of five years ; the affi\irs of the kingdom 
being managed by the prime minister. Cardinal 
Mazarin. The reign of this monarch was 
the most splendid recorded in history. The 
love of glory was his ruling passion. This he 
pursued, not only by his military achievements 
and the splendid career of victory, which illus- 
trated the early part of his reign, but also by the 

Questions. — 5. By whom was Henry succeeded? Who was 
prime minister? Wliat is said of his abilities? When did Louis 
die ? Who succeeded to the throne ? What is said of his reign ? j 
What was his ruling passion ? -^ 

I 



Prance. 213 

patronage which he extended to literature and 
science. 

I 7. He also promoted the arts of peace by 
'giving encouragement to manufactures and com- 
merce. He embellished the capital, built the 
Ipalaces of Versailles and that of Louvre, and 
'other useful works. The reign of Louis the 
jFourteenth has been justly styled the Augustan 
Age of French Literature, and is distinguished 
for the number of eminent men who flourished 
during that period. Turenne, Conde, Villars, 
fled the victorious armies of France ; Duquesne, 
iTourviile, Duguay-Trouin, made her navy 
■equal if not superior, to that of England ; whilst 
Vauban perfected the science of military engi- 
neering. The arts boasted of such names as Le 
Poussin, Lesueur, and Lebrun ; and literature 
was enriched by Corneille, Racine, Moliere, La 
Fontaine, La Bruyere, Boileau. Meanwhile, 
Bossuet, Bourdaloue, Massillon, and Fenelon, 
were creating imperishable models of sacred elo- 
jquence; and Mole, Lamoignon, and d'Agues- 
seau, were upholding the dignity of the laws. 
Louis died in the 78lh year of his age, and in 
the 73d of his reign, A.D. 1715. 

8. Louis the Fiileenth, the grandson of the 
late monarch, succeeded to the throne at the age 

^ Questions.— 7. What did he promote ? What has his reign been 
styled, and why ? Tell us the names of some of the eminent men- 
When did he die ? 8. Who succeeded ? 



214 France. 

of five years, under the regency of the Duke of 
Orleans. Louis engaged in the war of the Aus 
trian Succession, in which he supported the' 
claims of Charles, the son of the elector of Ba- 
varia, to the throne of Austria, in opposition lot 
Maria Theresa, who was supported hy Grea 
Britain. 

9. In 1755, war broke out between Prance 
and Great Britain, respecting their American 
possessions. This war was terminated by th^ 
peace of Paris, in 1763, by which the most im- 
portant possessions of Prance in North America 
were ceded to Great Britain. Louis died iri 
1774, in the 65th year of his age, and the 59th 
of his reign. The reign of this monarch and 
that of his predecessor, occupied a period of one 
hundred and thirty-two years. 



Questions. — 8. In what did Louis engage ? 9. In 1755, what took 
place? How was this war terminated? When did Louis die? 
What is said of his reign, &c. ? 



France. ^^^ 



CHAPTER XXXVIII. 

Louis the Sixteenth— The Revolution— 
i Bonaparte. 

J ■ ■ 

1. Louis the Sixteenth, the grandson of the 
llate monarch, succeeded to the ihrone in 1774. 
This virtuous and benevolent prince commenced 
his reign under difficuhiesof no ordinary nature. 
'Tlie nation was deeply in debt, arid the people 
Igroaned under a heavy weight of taxes. 

2. In the early part of his reign, he acknow- 
ledged the independence of the United States, 
openly received Franklin and Dean as her am- 
bassadors, and generously resolved to aid the 
Americans in securing the liberty of their coun- 
try. This noble action on the part of Louis the 
Sixteenth, should endear his memory to every 

American. 

3. Various reasons might be assigned for the 
origin of the French Revolution. The public 
debt had been increased by the benevolent efforts 
of Louis in aiding the people of the United 
States ; a spirit of republican principles was 
spread throughout France, on the return of the 

OuESTioNS.-l. Who succeeded to the throne? What is said of 
him -> Of the nation ? 3. In the early part of his reign, what did 
he do ? What is said of this noble action? 3. What are some of 
' the causes assigned for the French Revolution ? 



216 France. 

French officers and soldiers, after the successful 
termination of the American Revolution ; a gen- 
eral corruption of morals, and contempt for re- 
ligion, were prevalent among those at the head ^ 
of the government ; while the principles of athe- 
ism and infidelity, were widely diffused by the 
writings of Voltaire, Rousseau and others. These 
may be considered as the principal causes that 
brought about the fearful storm which spread 
desolation over France and convulsed the conti- 
nent of Europe. 

4. In order to restore the deranged condition 
of the finances, an assembly, called the Notables, 
was convoked, and shortly afterwards a demand 
was made for the convocation of a body called 
the States General, which was composed of three \ 
orders, the nobility, clergy and commons. This 
body met at Versailles, but it was not long before 
the members disagreed among themselves ; the 
commons seized upon the legislative authority, 
declared themselves the representatives of the 
people, and styled themselves the National 
Assembly. Of this Assembly, Bailly was presi- 
dent, while the Duke of Orleans and Mirabeau 
were the two most prominent members. 

5. In the meantime a violent insurrection 



Questions. — i. In order, &c., what assembly was convoked? 
What demand was made? When did this body meet? What 
did the commons do? Of this assembly, who was president? 

5. What broke out? 

1^ 



France. 217 

broke out in Paris. The Hotel des Invalides 
was taken by suprise, and thirty thousand mus- 
kets were seized ; the prison of Bastile was de- 
molished, the governor was assassinated, and his 
head carried through the streets amidst the 
shouts of the infuriated mob. At the news of 
these proceedings, Louis hastened to the capi- 
tal, in the hope of being able to allay the 
tumult. In this he was successful. He ad- 
dressed the people with the warmest expres- 
sions of affection. The whole multitude shouted, 
"■ Vive le Roi !" and the king again returned to 
Versailles. 

6. But scarcely had he departed, when the 
insurrection was renewed with increased violence. 
The mob directed their vengeance against those 
whom they considered as their oppressors, and 
the whole city of Paris presented a scene of 
blood. They finally went in a body to Ver- 
sailles, and demanded that the king should return 
to Paris. In compliance with their request, 
Louis, accompanied by the royal family, set out 
to the capital ; he was protected, however, from 
violence, by Marquis de Lafayette, who com- 
manded a body of troops styled the National 
Guards. 



QuEaTiONS.— 5, What places were taken, and what was done? 
What did Louis do ? 6. What was renewed ? What did the mob 
do? Where did they go ? Where did Louis return? By whom 
: was he protected ? 

jf 19 



218 France. 

7. The Revolution now began (o nriake rapid 
advances ; the States General was styled the 
National Assembly ; the privileges of the nobilif}'" 
and clergy were abolished ; the church lands 
were confiscated ; the monasteries suppressed, 
and royal authority nearly destroyed. The Na- 
tional Assembly drew up a new constitution, and 
was afterwards called the Constituent Assembly. 

8. In the meantime, the king and the royal 
family left the palace of Tuilleries, and en- 
deavored to escape from Prance ; but they were 
overtaken near the frontiers, and brought back to 
Paris. The Constituent Assembly separated on 
the 30th of September, 1791, and another body, 
was convened in October, styled the Legislative 
Assembly. 

9. Previous to this period, several polifical 
associations were formed, of which the Jacobin 
Club was the most predominant. The members 
of this factious association, being men of the 
most abandoned principles, governed the pro- 
ceedings of the assembly, and long continued to 
be a source of innumerable evils to the country. 
Another association, styled the Club of Corde- 
liers, surpassed even the Jacobins in their open 



Questions. — 7. Whfit is said of the revolution ? The privileges 
of the nobility? The church lands ? The monasteries? 8. What 
did the king do ? What did the constituent assembly do ? 9. What 
were formed? What is said of the members? What is said of 
the club of Cordeliers? 



France. 219 

contempt of religion, government and law. Of 
this faction, Marat, Danton, and Herbert, were 
the leading members. 

10. On the 21st of September, 1792, a new 
body was convened, styled the National Conven- 
tion. At its first meeting, the regal government 
was abolished, and France declared a republic. 
The next step was to consummate the drama : 
the king himself was arraigned before the con- 
vention, to answer various charges. In vain did 
Louis refute the absurd charges of which he was 
acused ; his enemies thirsted for his blood, and 
the sentence of death was pronounced upon him. 

11. On the 2 1 St of January, 1793, Louis the 
Sixteenth, after taking an affectionate leave of 
his wife, his children, and his sister, the princess 
Elizabeth, was led to execution. On reaching 
the scaffold, he viewed the spectators with calm- 
ness, and addressed them, saying: ^^ I die irmo- 
cent ; I pardon all my enemies, and I pray that 
France may not suffer for the blood she is 
about to shed." At this moment his voice 
was drowned by the noise of the drums ; he 
then calmly placed his head under the guillotine, 
and as the fatal axe descended, the courageous 

Questions, — 9. Who were its leading members? 10. In 1792, 
what was done ? At its first setting ? What was the next step ? 
What sentence was pronounced upon him? 11. In January, 1793, 
what toolc piace ? On reaching the scaffold, what is said of him ? 
What.did he say ? What was done ? 



* 



220 France. 

priest who attended him exclaimed : " Son of 
Saint Louis, ascend to heaven!" 

12. Afier the death of the king, his amiable 
and virtuous consort, Queen Marie Antoinette, 
was led to the scaffold and executed, amidst the 
furious cries of Vive la Repuhlique. A few 
months after this, the princess Elizabeth shared! 
the fate of the queen, and about a year l(iter, the 
young dauphin, an interesting child, died in 
prison, of a disease contracted from confinement 
and the cruel treatment received. Of all the 
members of the royal family, the daughter of 
Louis was the only one that escaped the fearful 
storm that desolated France. 

13. After these awful proceedings, the Na- 
tional Convention became divided into two fac- 
tions ; the one called the Mountain Party, headed 
by Robespierre, Danton, and Marat ; the other 
styled the Girondists, of which Brissot and Con- 
dorcet were the leaders. The Mountain Party 
prevailed, and Brissot and all the leaders of the 
Girondists were put to death. Among the rest, 
was that monster of vice and cruelty, the Duke 
of Orleans, who suffered by the hands of those 
very men whom he had raised to power. 

Questions.— 11. What did the priest exclaim ? 12. Who was 
next led to execution? Who shared the fate of the queen? 
Who escaped? 13. After these things, what followed? What 
were the names of the two parties ? Which prevailed? Who was 
among the rest? 



France. 221 

14. The dominion of Robespierre is styled 
'^ The Reign of Terror." The awful cruellies 
and excesses of this man, almost exceeded belief. 
Hundreds and thousands were sacrificed to his 
vengeance, and to that of his associates. Man)' 
were seized and hurried off to the guillotine, 
without trial, or without even being informed of 
the charges for which they suffered. Happily 
for mankind, his bloody career was destined to 
be of short continuance. His own friends be- 
came frightened at his cruehy, and formed a 
party against him ; being condemned on a 
charge of tyranny and cruelty, he atoned for 
his crimes upon the scaffold. After this, a new 
convention was formed, and the executive power 
placed in five directors. 

15. Previous to the death of Robespierre, the 
convention had carried its proceedings to the 
most extravagant excess. On motion of Gobet, 
Archbishop of Paris, the Christian religion was 
suppressed, and a decree passed, declaring that 
the only deities to be worshipped hereafter in 
France, should be Liberty, Equity, and Reason. 
A republican calendar w^as formed. Having 
renounced God and his saints, they substituted to 
every saint's name on the calendar the name of 

Questions,— 14. What was the dominion of Kobespierre styled? 
What is said of hundreds ? What was happy for mankind ? What 
was his fate ? What followed ? 15. On motion of Gobet, what took 
place ? What passed ? What was abolished, &e. ? 

19* 



222 France. 

some vegetable. As it was customary with the 
people, when a child was born, to give it the 
name of the patron saint of that clay, the poor 
mothers were much distressed when their repub- 
lican husbands, taking down the almanac, would 
read out, ^^ Carrot,'' '' Turnip," or '' Celery," 
as a fit name for their new-born babe. The 
Sunday was abolished, and in its place every 
tenth day was appointed as a day of rest. The 
cliurches were despoiled of their ornaments and 
treasures, and the bells cast into cannon. 

16. The sovereigns of Europe, alarmed at the . 
fearful progress of the French Revolution, en- 
tered into a coalition against France j but the 
combined forces of Great Britain, Russia, Hol- 
land and Spain, under the command of the 
Duke of Brunswick, were completely over- 
thrown. The French, elated by this success, 
carried their arms into the dominions of their 
enemies, and subdued the Netherlands, Holland, 
Switzerland, and a part of Germany. 

17. In 1796, Napoleon Bonaparte, then a 
young man in the 27th year of his age, was en- 
trusted with the command of the French army. 
This extraordinary man was a native of the 
Island of Corsica, and was born in the year 

Questions. — 15. What is said of the churches ? 16. What is said 
of the sovereigns of Europe ? The combined forces, &c. ? What 
did the French do ? 17. In 1796, what took place ? What is said 
of this man ? 



France. 228 

1769. At an early age, lie gave indications of 
great military talents ; and while at school, when 
the season would permit it, his favorite amuse- 
ment was that of making fortifications of snow, 
and fighting battles with snow-balls. 

18. Being now placed at the head of the 
French forces, Bonaparte soon astonished all 
Europe by the brilliancy of his victories. He 
conquered Italy, invaded Egypt, defeated the 
Egyptians in the famous battle of the Pyramids, 
and took possession of Cairo and all the Delta. 
After this he returned to France, abolished the 
Directory, and caused himself to be elected first 
consul. He then placed himself at the head of 
the French army, crossed the Alps, and defeated 
the Austrians in the celebrated battle of Marengo. 
By the treaty of Amiens, in 1802, Europe, for 
the first time since the commencement of the 
Revolution, enjoyed the blessing of peace. 

19. During the cessation of hostilities, Bona- 
parte spent the time in performing various acts 
of public utility. In compliance with a previous 
contract with Pope Pius VII, he re-established 
the Christian religion, which had been suppressed 
by the order of the convention. He published a 



Questions, — 17. At an early age ? While at school ? 18. Being 
now placed, &c., what is said of Bonaparte ? What did he con- 
quer, &e.? After this what did he do? Where did he defeat the 
Austrians ? By the treaty of Amiens, what took place ? 19. What 
did he re-establish ? What did he publish, &c. ? 



*224 Fkance. 



1 



new code of laws, offered great encouragement 
to commerce, and embellished Paris by creeling 
several splendid buildings and monuments. 
About this time, he caused himself to be crea- 
ted consul for life ; and in 1804, he assumed the 
imperial dignity, and was crowned Emperor of 
France. 

20. The peace of Amiens was of short dura- 
tion. In 1805, another coalition, between 
England, Austria, Russia, Sweden, and Prus- 
sia, was entered into against France. The em- 
peror immediately took the field against the 
combined forces of tlie allied powers, and cap- 
tured the Austrian army of thirly-three thousand 
men, at Ulm ; and, in the memorable battle of 
Austerliiz, defeated the united forces of Austria 
and Russia. 

21. Elated by his astonishing success, the 
emperor set no bounds to his ambition. He de- 
posed the king of Naples, and placed his own 
brother, Joseph Bonaparte, upon the Neapolitan 
throne. He then compelled the Dutch to re- 
ceive his brother Louis as king of Holland, and 
obliged Francis tiie Second to resign his title of 
Emperor of Germany, and take that of Emperor 



Questions. — 19. About this time, what did he do? And in 1804? 
20. In 1805, what took place? What is said of the emperor? 
Whom did he capture? Whom did he' defeat? 21. Whom did 
he depose, &c. ? What did he compel the Dutch to do ? Francis 
2nd. 



France. 225 

of Austria ; he then raised the electors of Bava- 
ria, Wurtemburg, and Saxony, to the rank of, 
kings. 

22. In 1812, he invaded Russia at the head 
of four hundred thousand infantry and sixty 
thousand cavalry, and with one thousand two 
hundred pieces of artillery. His progress was 
interrupted by the Russians, whom he defeated 
at Smolensk, and again at the desperate battle of 
Borodino, a few miles from Moscow, at which 
nearly thirty thousand fell on each side. When 
he arrived at Moscow, the capital of Russia, he 
found the city abandoned by its inhabitants. 
Soon after his arrival, fires broke out in different 
quarters, and the city was enveloped in flames. 
The Russians had preferred to destroy their mag- 
nificent capital, rather than see it in the posses- 
sion of the invaders. Bonaparte immediately 
commenced his retreat towards France. The 
sufferings of the French army, on i(s return, is 
almost incredible ; thirty thousand horses are said 
to have perished in a single day, and of this im- 
mense army, only thirty thousand returned to 
France. 

23. On his return, the emperor raised another 
army of three hundred thousand men, defeated 

Questions, — 21. Whom did he raise to kings? 22. In 1812, what 
did he do ? Where did he defeat the Russians ? How did he find 
Moscow ? What did he immediately do ? How many horses died ? 
How many men returned ? 23. On his return wliat did he do ? 



226 Prance. 

the allied powers at Baulzen, repulsed ihem at 
Dresden, but was ultimately overthrown in the 
tremendous battle of Leipsic, with a loss of forty 
thousand men in killed, wounded and prisoners. 
After this batde, Bonaparte fled to Paris, and 
abdicated the throne of France ; and after some 
deliberation, the island of Elba was selected as 
the place of his future residence. Things being 
thus arranged; Louis the Eighteenth, the brother 
of the unfortunate Louis XVI, was restored to 
the throne of his ancestors. 

24. In a few months after this event, to the 
astonishment of Europe, Bonaparte returned 
from exile ; he marched through France, and 
was again proclaimed emperor, amidst the loudest 
acclamations of the people. As soon as this event 
was made known, a formidable coalition was 
formed against him by nearly all the powers of 
Europe. The emperor once more placed him- 
self at the head of his army, but was entirely 
defeated by the allies under Wellington and 
Blucher, in the memorable battle of Waterloo, 
with a loss of upwards of forty thousand killed' 
and vi'ounded. This battle took place on the 
18th of June, 1815. 

25. After this battle, Bonaparte fled to Paris, 

Questions. — 23. Where was he overthrown ? After this, what did | 
he do ? Where was he sent ? What followed ? 24. In a few months * 
wha*^i took place ? What was formed against him ? Where and by 
whom was he defeated ? With what loss V 25. What did Bonaparte 
do? 



France. 227 

and again resigned (he crown ; he ihen sur- 
rendered himself lo Captain Maitland, the com- 
mander of a British sloop of war, and asked an 
as^dum in England. But. it was agreed among 
tlie allied sovereigns that he should be sent a 
prisoner to the Island of Saint Helena, where he 
died on the 5ih of May, 1821, in the sixth year 
of his captivity. An indelible stain is stamped 
on the national honor of Great Britain by this 
breach of faith towards the vanquished foe, who 
had trusted in British generosily ; and the name 
of Hudson Lowe, governor of Saint Helena, has 
been consigned to inAxmy for his shameful treat- 
ment of the illustrious captive. 

26. Louis was again restored to the throne of 
France, and was succeeded, in 1824, by his 
brother, under the title of Charles (he Tenth. 
A revolution took plnce in 1830 which ended in 
the expulsion of Charles, and the election of 
the Duke of Orleans to the throne, who took 
the name of Louis Philip. During the spring 
of 1848, another revolution took place, wiien 
Louis Philip, in his turn, was expelled, and 
France declared a Republic. A new constitu- 
tion was formed, and Louis Bonaparte, the 
nephew of Napoleon, was elected the first presi- 
dent. 

Questions. — 25. What was agreed? Where did he die? 29. By 
whom was Louis succeeded? What took place in 1830? And 
1843 ? W^ho was elected the first president ? 



228 France. 

27. In December, 1851, a plot, formed by 
the ultra or Red-republicans, for the overthrow 
of the government, was discovered by the presi- 
dent, who caused all the leaders to be arrested 
in the night preceding the day fixed for the out- 
break. Soon thereafter, many petitions were 
sent to the senate, asking that Louis Napoleon 
should be made emperor. The question was 
submitted to the people, and answered in the 
affirmative by a majority of several millions of 
votes. Thus, by the mysterious decree of 
Providence, the nephew of the captive of Saint 
Helena is seated on the imperial throne founded 
by his uncle ; and France is greater and more 
prosperous at this day, by peaceful means, than 
the first Napoleon ever made her through victories 
and conquests. 

QcESTiON. — 27. What followed? 



E]vraLA]N"D. 



CHAPTER XXXIX. 

England, from the Conquest by the 
Romans, A.C. B5 to A.D. 827. 

1. Our young readers are now called to take 

a look at the history of England, at present one 

of the most powerful and most important nations 

of Europe. Before proceeding to the history, it 

may be found very useful to take a short glance 

at the geography of the country. England is 

the southern part of the island of Great Britain, 

I and is about four hundred miles in length, and, 

I in some places, three hundred miles in breadth. 

1 2. The soil is not naturally fertile, but the art 

! and industry of the inhabitants have rendered it 

very productive, hence agriculture is carried to a 

high degree of perfection. The climate is moist, 

I and the extremes of heat and cold are less than 

' in other countries in the same latitude. The 

j traveller, on visiting England, is struck with the 

Questions. — 1. To what are the readers called? What will 
find useful? What is England? 2. What is said of the soil? 
I climate ? With what will the traveller be struck? 

^> 20 229 



230 England. 

appearance of wealth every where spread over 
the country. On the right, he will behold an 
ancient castle, or mouldering abbey, displaying 
the stately relics of former grandeur ; and on the 
left, the lofty mansion of some nobleman, dis- 
playing all the magnificence of modern refine- 
ment and luxury. 

3. There are many large cities in England. 
London, on the river Thames, is the capital of 
the British dominions. This city is the largest 
in the world ; it is about seven miles in length • 
and five in breadth, and contains a population of 
two millions of inhabitants. Among the public 
buildings, St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster 
Abbey are the most celebrated. 

4. The early inhabitants of this country are 
said to have been a tribe of Gauls, or Cellee, 
from the neighboring continent. They had but 
little knowledge of agriculture ; they dwelt in 
huts in the forest, clothed themselves in the skins 
of wild beasts, and lived upon the milk and flesh 
of their herds. Their religion was that of Druid- 
ism, a degrading form of superstition ; their 
priests were called Druids, and possessed great 
control over the minds of the people. 



Questions. — 2. On the right, what will he behold? On the left? 
3. What are in England ? What is said of London ? The popula- | 
tion? The public buildings ? 4. What is said of the early inhab- 
itants ? Where did they dwell? On what did they live? What 
is said of their religion ? -\ 



England. 231 

5. They taught the doctrine of the transmi- 
gration of souls, and offered human sacrifices to 
appease the wrath of their gods. They had, 
moreover, some knowledge of the art of war ; 
their soldiers were armed chiefly with the bow, 
the shield, and the lance. They had also a kind 
of war-chariot, set with scythes, which caused 
dreadful destruction, when driven among their 
enemies. 

6. Such was the condition of the island when 
it was first visited by the Romans. Julius Csesar, 
who had conquered Gaul and a part of Ger- 
many, determined to invade Britain. With this 
view, he collected a numerous fleet, and em- 
barked with ten thousand men. On reaching 
the coast, he beheld it covered with the natives, 
prepared to dispute his landing. For some time 
the Roman soldiers remained in doubtful sus- 
pense ; at length the standard bearer of the tenth 
legion leaped into the sea, and advanced towards 
the shore. His example was immediately fol- 
lowed by his companions ; they gained the shore, 
and obtained an easy victory over the undisci- 
plined Britons. 

7. In the reign of the emperor Claudius, the 

Questions. — 5. What did they teach ? What had they ? What is 
said of their soldiers? Tlieir war-chariots? 6. Wliat is said of 
Julius Cajsar? On reaching the shore, what did he find? What 
did the standard-bearer do? What followed ? 7. In the reign of 
emperor Claudius, what took place ? 



232 England, 

Romans determined to effect the final subjugation 
of Britain, as the subjugation by Julius Ceesar 
was rather nominal than real. The illustrious 
Caractacus, for nine years defended his domin- 
ions against the power of Rome ; but at length 
he was taken prisoner by Ostorius, and led cap- 
tive to Rome. As he passed ihrough the streets 
of the city, and beheld the splendor of the build- 
ings, he exclaimed : *^ Alas! how is it possible 
that a people, possessed of such magnificence at 
home, should envy Caractacus in his humble 
cottage in Britain." 

8. In passing over the northern part of Eng- 
land, you may meet with the ruins of ancient 
walls. These walls were built by the Romans, 
in order to prevent the inroads of a warlike race 
of barbarians from Caledonia, or Scotland. 
About the middle of the fifth century, the Ro- 
mans withdrew from Britain, leaving the inhabi- 
tants to their own resources ; then the north- 
ern inhabitants, no longer intimidated by the 
Roman legions, broke down the walls, and 
spread destruction over the southern part of the 
island. 

9. In their distress, the Britons applied for aid 
to the Saxons, a warlike people, who inhabited 

Questions.— 7. What is snid of Caractacus ? What did he ex- 
claim ? 8. In the northern part of England, what may you find ? 
By whom were they built? When the Romans withdrew, what 
followed? 9 In their distress, what did the Britons do ? 



England. 233 

the northern parts of Germany. The Saxons 
accepted the invitation, and sent over to England 
an army, under the command of Hingist and 
Horsa. The Scots and the other northern tribes 
were soon compelled to retire to their own native 
mountains. But the Saxons, having expelled 
the invaders, turned (heir arms upon the Britons, 
and being reinforced by the Angles and Jutes, 
they took possession of the country and forced 
the inhabitants to subjection. From the Angles, 
the name England is derived. 

10. The Britons for a long time resisted the 
Saxons, but after a contest of nearly one hundred 
and fifty years the Saxons prevailed, and estab- 
lished the Heptarchy, or seven Saxon kingdoms, 
wliich continued for about two hundred years. 
At length, Eihelbert, king of VVessex, united 
them in one kingdom, under the name of Eng- 
land. 

11. Previous to this period Christianity had 
been introduced into England. About the close 
of the sixth century. Pope Gregory the Great 
sent Saint Austin from Rome to carry the glad 
tidings of salvation to the inhabitants of Britain. 
Austin, accompanied by several monks, set out 
upon the holy mission, and having arrived in 

Questions. — 9. What is said of the Saxons? Having expelled 
the invaders, what did they do ? 10. What is said of the Britons? 
f At length, what did Ethelbert do ? 11. What had been introduced ? 
About the middle of the sixth century, what took place? 

20* 



234 England. 

England, made known to Ethelbert the object for 
which he had come. 

12. The king was not entirely ignorant of 
Christianity, for Bertha, his queen, ihe daughter 
of the king of Paris, had previously embraced 
the Christian religion. He therefore received 
the missionaries kindly, and gave them an au- 
dience under a large oak, in the open air. Saint 
Austin explained to him the doctrines of Chris- 
tianity, and the king shortly after received bap- 
tism publicly ; and such was the powerful 
influence of his example, that ten thousand of 
his subjects are said to have been baptised in a 
single day. 



CHAPTER XL. 



From the Foundation of the Monarchy 
TO THE Norman Conquest, A.D. 827 to 
. 1066. 

1. About this period, the coast of Britain was 
visited by a ferocious people from Denmark, 
called the Danes, who repeatedly plundered and 
laid waste the country, destroying everything 
with fire and sword. When Alfred, surnamed 

Questions.— 12. What is said of Ethelbert ? How did he receive 
the missionaries? What did St. Austin do? How many were 
baptised in a day ? 1. By whom -was the coast of Britain visited? ' 
How did Alfred find himself? 



England. 235 

Ihe Great, ascended the throne, he found him- 
self surrounded by these inveterate enemies. He 
immediately took the field against them, and is 
said to have defeated them in eight different 
battles in one year, and at length compelled them 
to retire to their own dominions. 

2. It was, however, only for a short time. 
They returned with reinforcements, ravaged the 
country, and even obliged Alfred to solicit 
peace. In his distress, the king was compelled 
to seek his safety in the most obscure of shelters. 
He accordingly laid aside all the ensigns of 
royalty, and disguising himself in the habit of a 
peasant, he passed several months in the cottage 
of a herdsman. While in this humble abode, 
the herdsman's wife, who did not know that he 
was the king, ordered him to take care of some 
cakes, that were toasting by the fire, while she 
was absent. 

3. Alfred, whose mind was otherwise em- 
ployed, forgot the injunction he had received 
and let the cakes burn. The woman, on her 
return, finding her cakes ruined, exclaimed : 
'^ What ! you will be ready enough to eat them 
by and by, and yet you cannot watch them, you 
idle fellow!" 

Questions. — 1. What did he immediately do ? 2. What did they 
do? What is said of the king? Where did he pass several 
months? While here, what was he ordered to do? 3. What is 
related of Alfred ? What did she tell him ? 



236 England. 

4. Alfred being desirous of learning the num- 
ber of the Danish forces, and their mode of 
disciph'ne, disguised himself as a wandering 
harper, entered the camp of the Danes, and 
played for the amusement of the soldiers. He 
was even introduced into the tent of Guthrum, 
the Danish prince, entertained him with his 
music, and remained with him for several days. 
Having thus learned in person the unguarded 
condition of the Danes, he returned, and having 
assembled his followers, attacked the enemy by 
surprise, and routed them with great slaughter. 

5. Alfred being now freed from these trouble- 
some enemies, turned his whole attention towards 
repairing the evils which they had caused, and 
improving the moral condition of his subjects. 
He established schools for the instruction of his 
people, and invited into his kingdom the most 
eminent men of Europe. He also founded the 
University of Oxford, composed a code of laws, 
and, according to many historians, established 
the trial by jury. 

6. It is recorded of Alfred that he put to death 
forty corrupt judges in one year j and so exact and 
impartially were the laws administered, and so just 
were the people, that gold ornaments could be 

Questions. — 4. What is related of Alfred? Where was he intro- 
duced? On his return, what did he do? 5. To what did Alfred 
turn his attention ? What did he establish ? What did he found ? 
Compose ? 6. What is recorded of Alfred ? 





Kngland. 237 

hung up in the public roads, and no one would 
touch them. He usually divided his time inio 
three equal parts, one of which he employed in 
study and in religious devotions, a second in the 
discharge of business, and the ihird in sleep and 
in recreating his body by exercise and diet. 
These divisions he exactly measured by burn- 
ing tapers of equal length. 

7. Alfred was one of the wisest and most 
illustrious princes that ever occupied the English 
throne. Whilst his private life was adorned by 
every Christian virtue, he was justl}?^ reputed as 
the greatest warrior, legislator and statesman 
of his age. He died in the year 901 , and 
left the throne to his son Edward, surnamed 
the Elder. 

8. Edward was a warlike prince, and his 
reign was almost one continual contest with the 
Danes and Northumbrians. He was succeeded 
by his brother Athelstan, who carried on a suc- 
cessful war against the Danes, Scots, and other 
enemies. Athelstan was succeeded in his turn 
by his brother Edmund. The reign of this 
prince was short, and his death tragical. As he 
was celebrating a festival in Gloucester, he was 
killed by Leolf, a notorious robber. 

QuESTioKS. — 6. How did he divide his time? How did he mea- 
sure these divisions? 7. "What is said of Alfred? His private 
life ? When did he die ? 8. What is said of Edward? By whom 
was he succeeded ? What was the fate of Edmund ? 



238 England. 

9. Eclred next succeeded to the throne. 
Among the chief advisers of the king, was Dun- 
stan, the venerable abbot of Glastonbury. Edred 
deposited with him all his treasures, and the 
titles of his lands, and wished to make him 
bishop of Winchester, which preferment he de- 
cHned. Edred, being of weak constitution, died 
after a reign of ten years, and left the throne to 
Edwin. 

10. Edwin, or Edwy, is generally represented 
as a prince of a weak and profligate character. 
He banished Dunstan, the abbot of Glastonbury, 
from the kingdom, because he opposed his amor- 
ous affections for Elgiva, a lady of high rank. 
Edwin was succeeded by Edgar, whose reign is 
memorable for being the period in which Eng- ; 
land was freed from wolves. By offering a lib- 1 
eral reward for each head, he produced such a j 
diligent search for them that the race shortly 1 
disappeared. He recalled the abbot of Glaston- 
bury from banishment, and appointed him bishop 
of Worcester. - 

11. Edgar was succeeded by Edward, styled f 
the Martyr, because he was assassinated at the 
instigation of Elfrida, his step-mother, who was 

Qdestions, — 9. Who succeeded? Who •was the chief adviser of 
the king? When did Edred die? 10. How is Edwin repre- . 
sented? Whom did lie banish? By whom was he succeeded? 
For what is his reign memorable? Whom did he recall? 11. By 
whom was he succeeded? 



England. 239 

induced to this crime for the purpose of procuring 
the crown for her own son, Ethehed the Second. 
During the reign of this prince, the Danes again 
invaded the country, under Sweyn, their king. 
Ethehed fled to Normandy, leaving his kingdom 
in the hands of the invaders. The people being 
thus left without a king, quietly acknowledged 
the Danish sovereign. 

12. When Canute, the son of Sweyn, as- 
cended the throne of Denmark, he asserted his 
claim to the throne of England ; and iiaving in- 
vaded the country, at the head of a powerful 
army, compelled the British monarch to divide 
his dominions with him. Shortly after this event, 
the English king was murdered, and Canute was 
acknowledged sole monarch of England. He 
was a prince of great ability, and the most 
powerful sovereign of his age. He died after a 
reign of eighteen years, much lamented by his 
subjects. 

13. Canute was succeeded by his son Harold, 
a weak and profligate prince. He reigned only 
three years, and left the throne to Hardicanute, 
the last of the Danish monarchs. As the jate 
king left no children, the English availed them- 

Questions. — 11. During his reign, what happened ? "What did 
Ethelreddo? The people? 12. What did Canute assert? After 
this event, what happened? What is said of him? When did 
he die? 13. By whom was Canute succeeded? What did the 
English do ? 



240 England, 

selves of this opportunity to shake off the Danish 
yoke, and to restore the Saxon line in the person 
of Edward, surnamed the Confessor. Edward 
was distinguished for the mildness of his dispo- 
sition, and for the practice of every christian 
virtue. 

14. At Edward's death, several competitors for 
the throne appeared. Of these, Harold, the son 
of the Earl of Godwin, and William, Duke of 
Normandy, were the most powerful. But 
Harold being present at the death of Edward, 
quietly stepped into the vacant throne, while 
William resolved to assert his claim to the crown 
of England by an appeal to arms, and accord- 
ingly landed in the island with a powerful army. 

15. He was met by Flarold, with an army 
equally numerous. The memorable battle of 
Hastings decided the fate of the English ; the 
nation submitted to the sceptre of William, who 
in consequence was called the Conqueror. 

Questions. — 1.3. How was Edward distinguished? 1-i. At his 
death what happened ? Of these, who were the most powerful ? 
What is said of Harold ? Of William? 15. By whom was he met? 
What is said of the battle of Hastings? 



England. '^^41 

I. 

CHAPTER XLI. 

'The Kings of the Norman Family — From 
A. D. 1066 TO 1154. 

i 1. William the Conqueror was a sovereign 
possessed of great abilities as a statesman and a 
warrior, yet many of his acts were cruel and 
oppressive. He was remarkable in his person, 
being tall and well proportioned, and few persons 
could be found who were able to bend his bow 
or wield his arms. 

2. He showed great partiality for his Norman 
followers, and raised them to all the posts of 
honor ; and he endeavored to abolish the En- 
glish language, by causing the youth to learn the 
French. No other language was used at court, 
and in fashionable society ; and it is owing to this 
fact that at present we find so many French words 
in the English language. 

3. The conduct of his children gave him 
much unhappiness. Robert at length openly re- 
volted against his father. William besieged him 
in a casde in Normandy, where many daring 
encounters took place. It happened, on one 
occasion, that Robert engaged the king himself, 

Questions.— 1. What is said of William? For what was he re- 
markable ? 2. What did he show ? What language was used at 
court? What is said of his children? Of Robert? What hap- 
pened on one occasion ? 

21 



^42 England. 

who was concealed by a helmet ; a fierce com- 
bat ensued. At length, the young prince 
wounded and dismounted his father. The king 
called out for assistance : Robert hearing his 
voice, recognized his parent, and struck with re- 
morse, he alighted from his horse, threw himself 
at the feet of William, and implored his pardon. 
He then assisted him to mount, and saw him re- 
turn to his camp. 

4. William the Second, surnamed Rufus, from 
his red hair, succeeded his father in the English 
throne, A.D. 1087. His reign was marked by 
cruelty and perfidy, and his death was tragical. 
As he was one day hunting in the forest, he was [ 
accidentally killed by one of his attendants, who 
aimed an arrow at a stag. Robert, the brother 
of William, was the lawful heir to the crown ; 
but at the time of William's death, he was ab- 
sent on a crusade to the Holy Land. Henry, his 
younger brother, taking advantage of his absence, 
seized upon the govermrient, and quietly as- 
cended ihe vacant throne, under the title of 
Henry the First. 

5. Robert on his return made an efl^ort to 
obtain the crown, but he was defeated and taken 
prisoner by his brother, who confined him in a 

Questions.— 3. Describe the contest? 4. Who succeeded to the 
throne ? What is said of his reign ? What was his end ? What 
is said of Robert ? What did Henry do ? 5. What did Robert do 
on his return ? What happened to him ? 



England. 243 

■ 

castle in Wales during the remainder of his fife, 
which lasted twenty-eight years. Alas! how 
feeble are the nearest ties of kindred, when they 
come in opposition to the raging impulses of am- 
bition. 



CHAPTER XLII. 
Family op Plantagenet. 

1. Henry the Second ascended the throne in 
the year 1154. The most important achievement 
of his reign, was the invasion and subjugation of 
Ireland, which country has remained more or 
less in a state of subjection to the English crown 
to the present time. 

2. During the early part of his reign, the 
famous Thomas-a-Becket, a man of great learn- 
ing and ability, held the first place in the king's 
favor, and was promoted to the office of high 
chancellor. It happened about this time that 
the Archbishop of Canterbury died, and Becket 
was appointed to fill the vacant see. 

3. Becket, while he filled the office of high 
chancellor, had displayed great magnificence j 

Questions.— 5. What is observed? 1. Who succeeded to the 
throne ? What was the most important event ? 2. In the early 
part of his reign, what distinguished person is mentioned? 
What happened about this time ? 3. What is said of Becket ? 



244 England, 

but on being elevated to the dignity of archbishop, 
he laid aside his former pomp and worldly dis- 
play. The train of knights and noblemen who 
were accustomed to attend him, were exchanged J 
for a few companions, selected from among | 
the most learned and most virtuous of the clergy. ? 
His diet was abstemious, and his charities were 
abundant ; his time was occupied in prayer, 
study, and in the discharge of the duties of his 
station. 

4. Shortly after Becket was consecrated bishop, 
Henry began to make encroachments on the 
rights of the church and the privileges of the 
clergy. Fie required that a clergyman, who had ' 
been tried for offences in the ecclesiastical court, 
should be delivered to the custody of the lay 
officers, to be tried again, and punished by a lay 
tribunal. He also prohibited the clergy from 
appealing to the court of Rome without his con- 
sent. 

5. The archbishop considered it his duty to 
oppose these measures, so repugnant to the dig- 
nity of the church, and to those liberties which 
Henry had sworn to preserve at his coronation. 
The king grew indignant at this oppositiou ; the 
archbishop thought it prudent to withdraw for a 

Questions. — 3. What did he lay aside ? What is said of his diet, 
&o.? 4. Shortly after this, what did Henry do? Require? Pro- 
hibit? 5. What did the archbishop consider? What is said of 
the king? 



England. 245 

time from England, and accordingly he retired 
to France. 

6. After some time a reconciliation was effect- 
ed between Henry and the primate, and the lat- 
ter again returned to England, carrying with him 
letters of suspension from the pope, against the 
bishops of Salisbury, London and York. The 
bishops on receiving these letters, burst into 
violent complaints against the primate, and has- 
tened to the king for redress. Henry in a 
moment of anger, exclaimed : *' Of all the 
cowards who eat at my table, is -there not 
one, who will free me from this turbulent 
priest !" 

7. Four of his attendants, taking this for the 
royal approbation, resolved to murder, or carry 
off the primate. They immediately repaired to 
the palace of the archbishop, and accused him 
of insolence to the king. While they were there 
the bell rang for vespers, and the undaunted pre- 
late arose, and went unattended to the cathedral. 
The assassins followed him, and as he ascended 
the choir, they entered the church, and one of 
their number cried out : " Where is the traitor?" 
To this no answer was returned. But another 
asked : «^ Where is the archbishop I" To this 

Questions.— 6. After some time, what took place ? What did the 
bishops do ? What did Henry exclaim ? 7. What did four of his 
attendants resolve ? While they were there, what did the primate 
do ? What did one of them cry out ? 

21* 



246 England. 

the prelate answered : " Here is the archbishop, 
but no traitor." 

8. Upon receiving this reply, they rushed for- 
ward, and one of them struck the archbishop a 
blow upon the head with a battle axe. When 
he felt the blood trickling down his face, the pre- 
late clasped his hands, and bowing down said : 
'* In the name of Christ, and for the defence of 
his church, I am ready to die." In this pos- 
ture, he sank to the floor, under their repeated 
blows, at the foot of Saint Bennet's altar. 

9. At the first news of this event, Henry was 
filled with dread and alarm ; he now lamented, 
when too late, the hasty expression which had 
led to the commission of so great a crime. A 
few years after this, he beheld his children uniting 
in rebellion against him, in conjunction with his 
perfidious nobles. These things, he concluded, 
were not in the ordinar}'^ course of nature ; they 
could be no other than the eflfects of the divine 
wrath, which he had called down upon himself 
by his persecution of the archbishop. 

10. The name of the prelate was, shortly- 
after his death, enrolled in the catalogue of the 
saints, and the fame of the miracles wrought at 
his shrine resounded throughout every part of 

Questions. — 7. What did the prelate answer? 8. What did they 
do? When he felt the blood, &g., what did he say ? How did he 
sink ? 9. What is said of Henry ? What did he behold ? What 
did he conclude ? 10. What is said of the name of the prelate ? 



England. 247 

Europe. Henry, in order to expiate his offence, 
resolved to make a pilgrimage to the tomb of the 
martyr. He accordingl}^ went to the cathedral 
in Canterbury, and prostrated himself before the 
shrine of Saint Thomas, while the bishop of 
London addressed the spectators. 

11. When the prelate had concluded his dis- 
course, the king arose and went to the chapter- 
house of the convent, where the monks and a 
few bishops and abbots were assembled. In the 
presence of these, the royal penitent confessed 
his crimes, and received on his shoulders, with a 
knotted cord, a few stripes from each. After this 
act of humility, he returned again to the shrine, 
and spent the night in prayer. 

12. The latter part of his life was embittered 
by the unnatural conduct of his sons, who joined 
in a second rebellion against their father. He 
asked for a list of the conspirators ; on receiving 
it, the first name that caught his eye was that of 
his favorite son John. Heart-broken, he read no 
more, but returned the paper. He died shortly 
after this, calling down the heaviest denuncia- 
tions of heaven upon his ungrateful children. 

13. Richard the First, surnamed the Lion- 



QuESTioNS. — 10. What did Henry resolve ? Kelate what follow- 
ed ? 11. What did the king do ? In the presence of these ? After 
this act, what did he do? 12. What is said of the latter part of his 
life ? For what did he ask and what followed ? How did he die 7 
13. Who snceeeded? 



248 England. 

hearted, succeeded to the throne. Richard was 
a prince of chivalrous and romantic turn of mind. 
He engaged in the crusades, and embarked for 
the Holy Land, where his personal valor was 
conspicuous in every action. On his return he 
was shipwrecked, and while endeavoring to pass 
in disguise through Germany, he was taken 
prisoner by the emperor, Henry the Sixth, who 
obliged him to give the sum of three hun- 
dred thousand pounds sterling for his liberty. 
Richard had no sooner returned to England, 
than he declared war against his former ally 
in the crusades, the king of France, who had 
encouraged the discontents in England to plot 
against him. During this war, the Lion- 
hearted king met his death while besieging 
the castle of Limoges. He had reigned ten 
years. 

14. John, the brother of Richard, succeeded 
to the throne, although Geoffrey, the son of an 
elder brother, was the lawful heir ; and for fear 
the young prince, at any future period, might 
assert his claim, he was, by the order of John, 
basely murdered. The reign of John was one 
of the most disgraceful in English history. In 
almost every action, he trampled upon the rights 

Questions. — 13. What is said of Richard? In what did he 
engage ? On his return, what happened ? How did he die ? 
14. What did John do ? What did he do with the young prince? 
What is said of his reign ? 



England. 249 

of his subjects, and infringed upon the privileges 
of his nobles. 

lo. At length, his nobles, unable to support 
his tyranny, entered into a confederacy against 
him, under the direction of Lanclon, the arch- 
bishop of Canterbury. They met at Runny- 
mede, and compelled the king to sign and seal 
the famous document of Magna Charta, which 
is regarded as the great bulwark of English lib- 
erty, even at the present time ; and by which 
the liberty and important privileges of all ranks 
of the people are secured. John died after an 
odious reign of eighteen years. 

16. Henry the Third, his son and successor, 
was a weak and timid prince ; and his long 
reign was almost a continued series of contests 
with his turbulent barons. Henry was at 
length compelled to resign his crown, but was 
again restored to the throne after the famous 
battle of Evesham, in which the rebellious 
barons were defeated. He died in the sixty- 
fourth year of his age, and fifty-sixth of his 
reign, A. D. 1272. 

17. Henry was succeeded by his son, Edward 
the First. Edward was a prince of great .military 
talents. He subjugated Wales, and created his 

Questions.— 15. At length ,what did his nobles do ? What was he 
compelled to sign ? When did he die ? 16. What is said of Henry ? 
What was he compelled to do, &c., and what followed ? When did 
he die? 17. By whom was he succeeded? What did Edward do ? 



250 England. 

eldest son Prince of Wales, a title which at 
present distinguishes the oldest son of the British 
sovereign. He also invaded Scotland, and de- 
feated the Scots in the battle of Dunbar, and 
led their king captive to England. The Scots 
were roused to throw off the English yoke 
through the exertions of the renowned hero, 
Sir William Wallace ; but Wallace, after many 
brilliant achievements, was betrayed into the 
hands of Edward, and was put to death with 
barbarous cruelty. 

18. Edward the Second, who succeeded to 
the throne, possessed but few qualities to distin- 
guish him as a sovereign. He was weak and 
indolent, and allowed himself to be governed by 
unworthy favorites. At length, a conspiracy was 
formed against him by his infamous queen, Isa- 
bella, and Mortimer, a young noble. Edward 
was compelled to resign the crown, and was af- 
terwards barbarously murdered, at the instigation 
of Isabella, A.D. 1323. 

19. Edward the Third succeeded to the throne. 
The reign of this prince was one of the most 
brilliant recorded in English history. He invaded 
Scotland, and defeated the Scots in the battle of 



Questions. — 17. What did he invade? By whom were the Scots 
roused, &c.? What was the fate of Wallace? 18. What is said of 
Edward the second ? What was formed against him ? What was 
his fate? 19. Who succeeded? What is said of his reign? What 
did he invade and do? 



England. 251 

Hallidon Hill. He then invaded France, and 
gained the memorable badle of Cressy ; and his 
son, the Black Prince, afterwards defeated John, 
the French king, in the famous battle of Poic- 
tiers, and led him captive to England. 

20. Edward died in the sixty-fifth year of his 
age and fifty-first of his reign, and was succeeded 
by Richard the Second, the son of the Black 
Prince. The reign of Richard was greatly dis- 
turbed by civil dissensions. Wat Tyler, a black- 
smith by profession, was the leader of the insur- 
gents. He led them to Smithfield, where he 
invited the king to a conference. Here he be- 
haved with so much disrespect, that he excited 
the indignation of one of the king's attendants, 
who struck him dead upon the spot. 

21. This rash act created the most violent 
excitement among the insurgents, and might have 
proved fatal to the king, had it not been for the 
presence of mind he displayed on that occasion. 
The young prince, riding up to the insurgents, 
while their bows were bent for execution, ex- 
claimed : '' What, my people ! will you kill 
your king ! Follow me, and you shall have 
what you desire." 

22. While Richard was absent in Ireland, a 

Questions. — 20. When did he die ? By whom was he succeed- 
ed? What is said of his reign ? Of Tyler? What was his fate? 
21. What is said of the rash act ? The young prince ? 22. What is 
related of Richard ? 



252 England. 

conspiracy was formed against him ; and on his 
return, he was compelled to resign his crown, 
and the Duke of Lancaster ascended the throne, 
under the title of Henry the Fourth. Richard 
was imprisoned in the castle of Pomfret, and 
was shortly afterwards cruelly murdered, A.D. 
1399. 



CHAPTER XLUl. 

The Lancaster Family — From A.D. 
1399 TO 146L 

1. Henry having succeeded to the crown by 
the murder of his lawful sovereign, soon found 
that the throne was not a place for the enjoyment 
of repose ; that the diadem that glitters upon the 
brow of monarchs, conceals beneath its splendor 
a thousand cares, unknown in the humbler walks 
of life. The early part of his reign was dis- 
tracted by insurrections, and the latter part of his 
life was rendered unhappy by the profligate con- 
duct of his son. Henry died in the forty-sixth 
year of his age, and fourteenth of his reign, 
A.D. 1413. 

2. He was succeeded by his son, Henry the 
Fifth, whose reign is memorable for the famous 

Questions.— 22. What was his fate ? 1. What did Henrj^ soon , 
find ? What is said of the early part of his reign ? When did he i 
die ? 2. For what is the reign of Henry the Fifth memorable ? ^ 



England. 253 

battle of Agincourt, in which the French were 
defeated with a loss of eleven thousand killed and 
fourteen thousand prisoners, while the English 
lost only forty slain. His brilliant career of vic- 
tory was cut short by death, in the thirty-fourth 
year of his age, and the tenth of his reign, 
A.D. 1422. 

3. Henry the Sixth, succeeded to the throne 
at the early age of ten months, under the regency 
of his uncle, the Duke of Gloucester. As the 

' young king advanced in years, he exhibited a 
I mild and pleasing disposition. He married Mar- 
' garet, the daughter of the king of Sicily, a 
woman of heroic courage. The early part of 
his reign was disturbed by the insurrection of 
Jack Cade, Cade, however, was defeated and 
slain, and the insurrection suppressed. 

4. Shortly after this, the Duke of York 
asserted his claim to the crown, and a most 
sanguinary civil war followed. The red rose 
was the symbol of the house of Lancaster, and 
the white rose that of the house of York ; hence 
this contest is often known by the name of the 

War of the two Roses. It is said that more than 
one hundred thousand persons were slain during 
this war. 



y Questions.— 2. What is said of victory ? 3. Who succeeded ? 
I What is said of the young Icing ? By what was his reign disturb- 
ed ? 4. After this what took place ? Of what was the red rose the 
I symbol ? The white rose ? Hence what is this war called ? 

22 



254 England. 

5. In the great battle of St. Albans, the king 
was defeated and taken prisoner ; but Queen 
Margaret still kept the field, and gained the 
battle of Wakefield, in which the Duke of York 
was defeated and slain. Edward, the son of 
the Duke, took the field in support of the house 
of York ; he entered London with a numerous 
army, and was proclaimed king, under the title 
of Edward the Fourth, A.D. 1461. 



CHAPTER XLIV. 



The House of York — Edward IV. — Ed- 
ward V. — Richard III. — From 1461 to 
1485. 

1. Scarcely was Edward seated upon the 
throne, when he found himself opposed by the 
heroic Margaret, at the head of sixty thousand 
men. Edward and the Earl of Warwick has- 
tened to give her battle ; the two armies met at 
Towton, where the forces of the Queen were 
completely routed. 

2. The situation of the Queen was deplorable 
in the extreme. With no other companion than 
her little son, she fled from the field of battle, 

Questions. — 5. What happened in the battle of St. Albans ? What * 
is said of the Queen? Of Edward the son of the Duke ? 1. What |j 
is said of Edward? Where did the two armies meet? 2. What is • 
said of the Queen ? What did she do ? , 



England. 255 

and entered the gloomy forest of Hexham. Here 
she fell into the hands of ruffians, who dispoiled 
her of her jewels and treated her with the great- 
est rudeness ; they however disputed about the 
spoils, and during their dispute she made her 
escape and fled with her son into the thickest of 
the forest. When almost overcome with fatigue, 
and about to sink in despair, she was suddenly 
I roused by the approach of a robber with a drawn 
sword. 

3. Finding it impossible to escape, she resolved 
I to throw herself upon his generosity. She ad- 
• vanced towards him and said : " Friend, here is 
the son of your king ; I commit him to your 
protection." The man pleased with the confi- 
dence placed in him, rendered all the assistance 
in his power. He conducted her safely to the 
sea-coast, and she escaped to Flanders. 

4= A few years after this, Queen Margaret 
having collected another army on the continent, 
returned to England, and made a second effort to 
liberate her husband, and to replace him upon 
the throne. In this she was successful ; Edward 
was expelled, and Henry, after being six years in 
captivity, was again restored. Edward, however, 
soon returned with a powerful army, and having 

Qgfstions. — 2. Into whose hands did she fall ? What followed ? 
When almost, &c., how was she roused ? 3. What did she resolve ? ' 
What did she sayl What did the man do ? 4. After a few years 
what took place ? What is said of Edward and Henry ? 



256 England. 

defeated the forces of Henry in the bloody hatde 
of Barnet, again seized upon the crown. 

5. The intrepid Margaret again took the field 
against him, but was entirely defeated by Edward 
in the desperate battle of Tewkesbury, in which 
she and her son were taken prisoners. The 
king asked the youthful Edward why he dared 
invade his dominions, to which the prince re- 
plied : ^^ 1 have entered the dominions of my 
father to avenge his injuries^ and to redress my 
own." The ungenerous king, enraged at this 
noble reply, struck the prince with his sword, 
and his attendants, taking this as a signal for 
further violence, killed the young prince upon 
the spot. 

6. Edward passed the remainder of his reign 
in acts of tyranny and cruelly. He caused his 
brother, the Duke of Clarence, to be put to tieath 
for a trifling offence. The life of the deposed 
monarch Henry was terminated by assassination 
in prison. These acts of cruelty w^ere termina- f 
ted by the death of the king. He died in the 
forty-second year of his age, A.D. 1482. 

7. Edward left two sons, the elder of which 
ascended the throne at the age of thirteen, under 



Questions. — L What did Henry do? 5. What is said of Marga- 
ret? What did he ask the young prince? What did he reply? 
What was his fate ? 6. What is said of Edward ? What did ho 
cause? What was the fate of Henry? When did Edward die? 
7, Who ascended the throne? 



England. 257 

the title of Edward the Fifth ; but the Duke of 
York, having caused the death of the youthful 
king and his brother, seized upon the crown, and 
ascended the throne under the title of Richard 
the Third. Scarcely was Richard seated upon 
the throne, when he found a powerful rival in 
the person of Henry Tudor, Earl of Richmond. 
Richard was defeated and slain in the battle of 
Bosworth, and his victorious rival was crowned 
upon the field of battle, and assumed the title of 
Henry the Seventh. 



CHAPTER XLY. 



Tudor Family— Henry VH. — Henry VHI. 
— Edward YI.— Mary and Elizabeth — 
From 1485 to 1603. 

1. The succession of Henry put an end to the 
civil wars which had so long devastated the 
kingdom. The early part of his reign was dis- 
turbed by the appearance of two pretenders to the 
throne. The first was Lambert Simnel, the son 
of a baker, who attempted to counterfeit the 
Earl of Warwick ; he was defeated and taken 

Questions.— 7. What did the Duke of York do and seize? In 
whom did he find a rival ? What was the fate of Eichard ? What 
is said of his victorious rival ? 1. What is said of the succession 
of Henry ? The early part of his reign ? Who was the first ? 

22* 



258 England. 

prisoner, and Henry made him a servant in his 
kitchen. 

2. The second was Perkin Warbeck, who 
endeavored lo connlerfeit the Duke of York. 
After a variety of adventures, Warbeck was taken 
and hanged at Tyburn. Henry was a prince 
equally distinguished for his wisdom in the cabi- 
net and for his abihty in the field ; he passed j 
many useful laws, and gave encouragement to 
industry and commerce. After a prosperous 
reign of twenty-four years, he left the throne to 
his son and successor, Henry the Eighth. 

3. Henry the Eighth succeeded to the throne 
under the most favorable circumstances. He 
was then in the eighteenth year of his age, and 
possessed of every quality that could endear him 
to his subjects ; but as he advanced in life, all 
his better qualities degenerated into the most de- 
testable vices, until he became a cruel and ra- 
pacious tyrant. The most important events of 
Henry's reign, grew out of his matrimonial alli- 
ances. He had no less than six wives : two of 
whom he caused to be beheaded, for real or pre- 
tended crimes. 

4. His first wife was Catherine of Arragon, an 
amiable and virtuous woman. Among: the ladies 



Questions. — 2 Who was the second? What is !<aid of Henry? ^^ 
To whom did he leave the throne ? 3. What is said of Henry 
the Eighth ? What did he become? How many wives had he? 
4. Who was his first wife ? 



England. 259 

who attended tlie queen, was Ann, the fair 
daughter of Sir Thomas Boleyn. This young 
lady so captivated the king's affections, that he 
resolved to mtike her his wife, and for this pur- 
pose applied to the Pgpe for a divorce from 
Catherine of Arragon. Clement the Seventh 
replied, that as he had been lawfully married to 
Catherine, no power on earth could release him 
from his obligations. The king, enraged at this 
answer, threw off all restraint, abolished the 
Pope's authority in England, and by an act of 
parliament caused himself to be proclaimed the 
head of the English church. 

5. He now resolved to effect a divorce without 
the Pope's consent. For this purpose he assem- 
bled a court over which the famous Cranmer, 
Archbishop of Canterbury, presided. This court 
readily annulled his marriage with Catherine, 
and the king was immediately married to Ann 
Boleyn. He caused the venerable bishop Fisher, 
and the celebrated Sir Thomas More to be be- 
headed, because they would not acknowledge his 
supremacy. He suppressed the monasteries in 
England, and converted their estates to the use 
of the crown. 

6. In his extravagance, he plundered the rich 

Questions. — i. What is said of Ann Boleyn ? What did the king 
resolve and do? What did the Pope reply? What did the king do ? 
What did he resolve? What did he assemble? Whom did he cause 
to be beheaded ? What did he suppress ? 6. What did he plunder ? 



260 England. 

shrine of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, and 
despoiled it of its ornaments of silver and gold ; 
then, ordering the Saint to be tried for treason 
committed against Henry the Second, he con- 
demned him as a traitor, and caused his rehcs to 
be taken out and scattered to the wind. His 
wicked career was at length terminated by death, 
in tlie fifty-sixth year of his age and the thirty- 
seventh of his reign, A.l). 1547. Henry was 
succeeded by his son, Edward the Sixth, in the 
tenth year of his age. 

7. During the reign of the late monarch, the 
Reformation commenced in Germany. Shortly 
after its commencement, Henry wrote a book 
against Luther, on which account he was styled 
*^ The Defender of the Faith," a title which is 
retained by the British sovereigns to the present 
day. Martin Luther, the celebrated reformer, 
was born at Isleben, in Saxony. At an early 
age he entered the order of the Augustine friars, 
and in the course of lime became professor of 
divinity in the University of Wittenburg. In 
1517, he threw off his monastic habit, and com- 
menced the Reformation. 

8. Luther, in reprobating the abuses said to 

Questions.— 6. What did he order and do? When did lie die? 
By whom was he succeeded ? 7. During his reign what com- 
menced in Germany? What did Henry write? What is said of 
Luther? At an early age ? In 1517, what did he do? 8. What is 
again said of Luther ? 



England. 261 

have been committed by certain individuals at 
that time, attaci^ed several points of Catholic 
doctrine, particularly that of indulgences. Catho- 
lics believe that an indulgence is a relaxation of 
all or a part of the temporal punishment due to 
sin, after the guilt has been remitted by the sac- 
rament of penance ; they do not believe that it is 
a pardon for sin, much less, a license to commit sin. 

9. Before the death of Henry, the Reformation 
spread into England ; and now, during the reign 
of Edward, it became patronized and tolerated. 
A new liturgy "in the English language, and a 
book of Common Prayer, were compiled by 
Archbishop Cranmer : and by the adoption of 
these, all the rights and ceremonies of the Catholic 
Church were abolished, and a form of worship 
nearly resembling that of the present Church 
of England, was established throughout the 
kingdom. 

10. The young king died suddenly, in the 
sixteenth year of his age. Previous to his death, 
he had been prevailed upon to set aside his sis- 
ters Mary and Elizabeth, and to leave the crown 
to Lady Jane Gray. Accordingly, this lady was 
immediately elevated to the throne ; but after 
wearing the crown for ten days, slie retired to a 

Questions. — 8. What do Catholics believe of an indulgence ? 
<). Before the death of Henry, wliat took place? VVhai ia said of 
the new liturgy? What was abolished ? 10. What is said of the 
king? What is said of Lady Jane Gray ? 



262 England. 

private station, and Mary, the lawful heir, was 
quietly acknowledged. But scarcely was Mary 
seated on the throne, than a second conspiracy 
was entered into against her. The conspirators 
were defeated, and several of them atoned for 
their rebellion on ihe scaffold. Among those 
who suffered on this occasion, was the much 
lamented Lady Jane Gray. 

11. Mary had been much censured for con- 
senting to the execution of this unfortunate lady. 
It is true that her life had been spared on a for- 
mer occasion, still, it would have reflected honor 
on Mary, had she refused to visit on the youthful 
Jane the guilt of others. Mary, in the second 
year of her reign, married Philip the Second, of 
Spain . Towards the close of her life, the French 
took Calais, an event which hastened her death. 
She died in the forty-sixth year of her age and 
the sixth of her reign, A. D. 1S58. 

12. The foulest blot upon the memory of this 
queen, is (he persecution of the Reformers, per- 
mitted during her reign. It might, however, be 
observed, not by any means to vindicate her 
acts, but as an apology for her conduct, that she 
lived at a period when religious toleration was 
neither understood nor practised by either Catho- 
lics or Protestants ; when the extirpation of what 

Questions. — 10. Who was acknowledged? "What followed? 
11. What is said of Mary? Whom did she marry? What place ' 
did the French take ? I'i. What is the foulest blot? i 



England. 263 

were deemed erroneous doctrines was inculcated 
as a duty by the leaders of every religious de- 
nomination. One of her first acts, after she 
I ascended the throne, was to restore the Catholic 
religion, the public exercise of which had been 
I nearly extinguished during the reign of her 
' brother. 

I 13. On the death of Mary, Elizabeth suc- 

I ceeded to the throne. One of her first acts, was 

to re-establish the Protestant faith as the religion 

of the realm, and to assume the title of supreme 

I head of the English church. One of the princi- 

I pal events of her reign, was her persecution of 

I Mary, Queen of Scotland. Mary, who was the 

grand-daughter of Henry the Seventh, and, after 

Elizabeth, the next heir to the English throne, 

was renowned throughout Europe for her beauty 

and accomplishments. She had been educated 

at the court of France, and had married Francis 

the Second, who died shortly after the celebration 

of the nuptials. 

14. On the death of Francis, Mary returned 
to her own dominions. Shortlv after her return, 
she married Lord Darnly, a man of a fickle and 
jealous disposition. About a year after his mar- 
riage, Darnly, being unwell, had removed to a 

Questions. — 12. What is observed ? 13. Who succeeded ? What 
was one of her first acts? What is said of Mary, Queen of Scot- 
land? Where had she been educated ? 14. What. did Mary do? 
Who did she marry ? What was his fate ? 



264 England. 

house near Edinburg for the benefit of his health ; 
but the house in which he had taken up his 
abode was blown up with gunpowder, and the 
body of Darnly thrown into an adjacent garden. 
Shortly after this event, Mary was seized by the 
Earl of Both well, and led captive to the castle of 
Dunbar, and there compelled to marry him. 

15. A rebellion soon broke out ; Bothwell was 
expelled from the country, and Mary again taken 
prisoner and confined in the castle of Lochleven. 
Here she was compelled to resign her crown in 
favor of her son, and the Earl of Murray was 
appointed regent. She finally escaped from cap- 
tivity, and having collected her adherents, she 
made an effort to regain her crown ; but being 
defeated in the battle of Ijangside, she resolved 
to seek an asylum in England, and to throw her-j 
self upon the mercy of her cousin Elizabeth. 

16. As soon as Mar}"^ landed in England,; 
Elizabeth ordered her to be confined in Tutburyj 
castle, under the custody of the Earl of Shrews-! 
bury. The unfortunate Queen of Scots lan- 
guished in captivity for nearly twenty years. At 
last her unnatural cousin , Q,ueen Elizabeth, issued 
an order for her execution, under the pretence that 
Mary conspired to deprive her of her crown. 

Questions.— 14. After this what followed? 16. What is said of 
Mary? Wliat was she compelled to do? Having escaped what 
did she do? What did she resolve? 16. What did Elizabeth i 
order ? What is said of the unfortunate Queen ? 



I England. 265 

17. When Mary^was led forth to execnlion, 
I she was exhorted to renounce the religion of her 
'ancestors, and to die in the reformed religion, 
; but she replied that she had been born a Calho- 
I lie, in that religion she had lived, and in fhat 
' religion she was resolved to die. She then offered 
I up her prayers for (he church, for her son, and 
for her cousin, Clueen Elizabeth, and having 
1 taken an affectionate farewell of her faitliful at- 
tendants, she calmly resigned her head to the 
block, which was severed from her body at the 
second stroke of the axe. 

IS, Elizabeth died in the seventieth year of 
her age, and in the forty-fifth of her reign, Al). 
'1003. Elizabeth possessed eminent qualities as 
a sovereign, but in principle, she was despotic, 
cruel, jealous and revengeful ; her conversation 
was often grossly profane, and in her private life 
she was even less to be admired. Her reign was 
distinguished for men of learning ; among these, 
Bacon, Shakspeare, and Spencer, were the most 
eminent. The custom of smoking tobacco was 
introduced by Sir Walter Raleigh ; and potatoes 
were also brought from America to England 
about this period. 

QuiESTioNS.— 17. What was Mary exhorted to do ? What did she 
reply? What did she then, do? 18. When did Elizabeth die? 
What did she possess ? What is said of her reign ? What custom 
"was introduced? 



23 



266 England. 

CHAPTER XLVI. 
The Stuart Family. 

1. On the death of Elizabeth, James the 
Sixth of Scotland succeeded to the Enghsh 
throne, under the title of Janies the First. The 
most remariiable event of his leign, was the 
famous Gunpowder Plot, which was a design of 
a few daring adventurers to blow up the parlia- 
ment house, and involve in one common ruin 
the king, lords and commons. The plot, how- 
ever, was discovered, and one of the leaders, 
Guy Fawkes, who was to fire the magazine, was 
taken as he was about to do the act. 

2. James died in 1625, and was succeeded by 
his son, Charles the First. The reign of this 
prince was greatly distracted by civil wars. His 
parliament revolted against him, and after the 
war had raged for several years, the royal forces 
were routed, and the king fell into the hands of 
his enemies. The unfortunate monarch was 
brought to trial for levying war against the parlia- 
ment ; and being condemned, he was publicly 



Questions.— 1. Who succeeded Elizabeth ? What was the Gun- 
powder Plot ? What is said of the plot ? 2. When did James die ? 
Who succeeded ? What is said of his reign ? What was the fate 
of this monarch ? 



England. 267 

executed, in the twenty-second year of his reign, 

j A.D. 1648. 

\ 3. After the death of the kin^, the royal gov- 
ernment and the house of lords were abolished, 
and a repubhcan form of government established. 
The parliament, which had been in session for 
eleven years, and is known by the name of the 
Long Parliament, was at length dissolved by 
Cromwell, who usurped the whole power of the 
government and assumed the title of Protector. 
His administration was directed with energy and 
ability, and considerably advanced the military 
glory of England. He died in the fifty-ninth 

, year of his age, A.D. 1658. 

4. Richard Cromwell, his son^ was proclaimed 
Protector ; but after holding the office for a few 
months, he resigned the title, and retired into 
private life. In 1660, Charles the Second was 
restored to the throne of his father. During his 
reign, the city of London was visited by a plague, 
which carried off ninety thousand of its inhabit- 

j^ants ; and shordy afterwards a fire took place, 
by which thirteen thousand houses were laid 
in ruins. To perpetuate the memory of this 
calamity, a monument was erected, with an in- 

Q,UESTioNs.— 3. What were abolished? What is said of the 

Parliament? By whom was it dissolved, &c.? What is said of 

, his administration? When did he die? 4. Who was proclaimed 

Protector? In 1660, what took place? During his reign what 

took place ? What was erected and what is said of it ? 



268 England. 

scription on the base, falsely ascribing it to the 
Roman Catholics ; but this inscription has been 
lately erased by the order of parliament. 

5 Charles died in the twenty-fifth year of his 
reign, A. D. 1685. Shortly before his death, 
he sent for a Catholic clergyman, and received 
the last rites of the Catholic church from his 
hands. On the death of Charles, his brother, 
the Duke of York, ascended the throne under 
the title of James the Second. The early part 
of the reign of this prince was disturbed by the 
rebellion of the Duke of Monmouth ; the Duke, 
however, was taken prisoner and beheaded, and 
the rebellion suppressed. |j 

6. Lord Chief Justice Jeffrys, who was ap- " 
pointed to try rebel prisoners, is represented as 
having been guilty of much cruelty in the dis- 
charge of the duty assigned him ; and all the 
odium of the proceedings fell upon the king. 
An insurrection broke out in which many of 
the king's former friends and adherents, and 
even several of his own children took part. 
William, the Prince of Orange, and son-in-law 
of James, was applied to for aid, and the crown 
offered to him as the reward of his services. He i 
accepted the invitation, and landed in England 
• ■ I 

Questions. — 5. When did Charles die ? Wha ascended ihe i 
throne ? In the early part of his reign what took place ? 6. "What 
is said of Jeffrys ? What broke out ? What is said of the Prince 
of Orange? 



England. 269 

with considerable force ; James fled from the 
kingdom, and Wilham stepped into the vacant 
throne. 

7. After spending some months at the court of 
Prance, James resolved to make an effort to regain 
his crown, through the loyally of the people of 
Ireland, who still remained faithful to his inter- 
est. He landed at Dublin, and after some delay, 
he met the forces of William on the banks of 
the river Boyne ; here an obstinate battle took 
place, which, owing to the weakness and cow- 
ardice of James, terminated in favor of his 
rival. He fled again to France, where he 
died in the sixty-eighth year of his age, A.D. 
1701. 

8. On the death of William, the crown 
devolved upon Anne, the second daughter of 
James. In the early part of her reign, a war 
was waged against France, during which the 
Duke of Marlborough gained the celebrated 
victories of Blenheim, Ramilles, and others, 
over the forces of Louis the Fourteenth. The 
other important events of her reign, were the 
taking of Gibraltar, a stronghold which remains^ 
in the possession of the English to the present 
time ; and the union between England and Scot- 



QgESTiONS — 6. WhatdidJamesdo? 7. Whafcdid James resolve? 
Where did he land? What took place ? What became of James?' 
8. On whom did the crown devolve ? What is said of the early 
part of her reign ? What were the other events ? 

23* 



270 England. 

Jand, by which the two countries were included 
in one, under the common title of Great Britain. 
9. This period has been styled the Augusian 
Age of England, and is distinguished for men of 
genius and learning, such as Pope, Swift, and 
Addison. The queen, whose health had been 
for some time on the decline, at lenglh passed 
from the turmoil and splendor of the throne to 
the humble quietude of the tomb, in the fiftieth 
year of her age, A.D. 1714. 



CHAPTER XLVII. 



House op Brunswick — George 1. — George 
II. — George III. — George IV. — William 
IV. — Q.UEEN Victoria. 

1. On the death of Anne, the Elector of 
Hanover succeeded to the throne of England, 
under the title of George the P^'irpt. His reign 
presents few events of importance. During ii a 
rebellion broke out in Scotland in favor of the 
;Son of James the Second, which was, however, 
;Soon suppressed, and the most exemplary severity 
•exercised against the leaders. George died in the 



Questions. — 9. What is said of this period? When did the 
■Queen die? 1. Who succeeded to the throne? What rebellion 
Ibroke out? When did he die ? 



England. 271 

sixty-eighth year of his age, and the thirteenth 
of his reign, A.D 1727. 

2; George the Second, who succeeded to the 
throne, was a prince of some ability, and fond of 
martial exercises. He espoused the cause of 
Maria Theresa of Austria, against the Emperor 
Charles and Louis the Fifteenth, of France. 
After the war had raged for some time, peace 

K' was restored by the treaty of Aix-la-Chapelie, by 
which the claims of Maria Theresa were acknowl- 
edged. During his absence on the continent, 
Charles Edward, the eldest son of James the 
Second, made another effort to gain possession 
of the throne of his father. He landed in Scot- 

/ land, and defeated the royalisfs in the battle of 
Preston Pans, but was signally defeated in the 
famous battle of Culloden. 

3. Towards the close of the reign of George, 
war was again renewed between England and 
France, on account of their respective possessions 
in America. The war was finally terminated by 
the surrender of all Canada to the English. 

^George died in the seventy-sevenih year of his 
age, and thirty-third of his reign, A.D. 1760. 
George the Third, the grandson of the late mon- 

j arch, succeeded to the throne, in the eighteenth 
year of his age. 

■■'— , ^ ■ 

Questions.— 2. Who succeeded? What did he espouse? During 
*'his absence what happened ? 3. What war was renewed ? When 
did he die? Who succeeded? 



272 England. 

4. This prince commenced his reign by a 
course of unjust and oppressive measures towards 
the British colonies in North America. The 
colonies were at length driven into rebellion, 
and after a long and expensive war, England 
was compelled to acknowledge their independ- 
ence. The other most important events of his 
reign, were the rebellion in Ireland, and the long 
and sanguinary conflicts that grew out of the j 
French revolution. 

5. The principal achievements of the British 
arms during this period, were the famous victo- 
ries of the Nile and Trafalgar, by Lord Nelson, 
and those of Salamanca, Vittoria,and Waterloo, 
by Wellington. George died in the seventy- 
eightli year of his age, after a reign of sixty 
years, the longest recorded in English history. 
The reign of George the Fourth, who succeeded 
to the throne, was distinguished for the passage 
of the Catholic Relief bill, by which the disa- 
bilities of the Roman Catholics in Great Brit- 
ain and Ireland were removed. England, at 
this period, also assisted the Greeks in gaining (heir 
independence. The British fleet, in union vvilh 
that of France and Russia, gained the celebrated 
victory over the Turks in the battle of Navarino. 



Questions. — 4. What is said of this prince? The colonies, &c.? 
Wiiat were the other events ? 5. What were the principal achieve- 
ments? When did he die? For what was the reign of George 
the Fourth distiguished ? What is said of England ? 



England. 273 

6. George the Fourth died 1830, and was 
succeeded by his brother William, Duke of 
Clarence, under the title of William the Fourth. 
The sliort reign of this prince was not distin- 
guished for anything of importance. At his death 
he was succeeded by her present majesty, Q,ueen 
Victoria. 



Questions.— 6. When did George die? By whom was William 
the fourth suoeeeded? 



IRELAJSTD. 



CHAPTER XLVIII. 

The Early Inhabitants — The Introduc- 
tion OP Christianity by St. Patrick. 

1. The early inhabitants of this country, 
according to the best authorities, were of Celtic 
origin, and arrived in Ireland from the western 
coast of Spain. The early religion of the people 
was similar to that of nearly all the eastern 
nations of Europe. They adored the sun under 
the name of Baal, and the moon under the title 
of Re ; fire was also sacred among them. 

2. The country was divided into a number of 
small kingdoms, each governed by its own king, 
and the whole subordinate to a supreme mon- 
arch. One of the most illustrious of the Irish 
monarchs, was Cormac Ulfadah, who reigned 
about the middle of the third century. He was 
a man of great learning, and is said to have 
founded three academies at Tara, the ancient 



Questions.— 1. What is said of the early inhabitants ? The reli- 
gion? What did they adore? 2. What is said of the country? 
Of Cormac Ulfadah ? What academies did he form ' 

274 



Ireland. 275 

residence of the monarchs of Ireland. In the 
first, the science of war was taught ; in the sec- 
I ond, history; and in the third, law. Towards 
' the close of his reign, Cormac abdicated the 
throne in favor of his son, and retired to an hum- 
ble cottage, where he devoted himself to hterary 
pursuits. 

3. Nothing of any particular importance occur- 
red in the history of Ireland, until the introduc- 
tion of Christianity by the illustrious Apostle, 
St. Patrick. This holy man, according to the 
best authorities, was born in Gaul, of respectable 
parentage, about the year 387. In his youth he 
was taken captive to Ireland, and sold to a man 
named Milcho, by whom he was employed in 
attending flocks. After six years of captivity, he 
escaped to his native country, and after spending 
some time with his parents, he repaired to the 
monastery of St. Martin, at Tours, where it is 
believed, he was raised to the ecclesiastical state. 

4. Shortly after this period Pope Celestine 
commissioned Saint Patrick to convert the people 

tof Ireland to Christianity. The Saint immedi- 
ately set out for the scene of his labors, and 
arrived in Ireland during the year 432. The 
most abundant success attended his labors ; he 

Questions.— 3. By whom was Christianity introduced? When 
and where was he born ? What happened in his youth ? What is 
said of him? 4. What did Pope Celestine do? What is said of 
the Saint? When did he arrive iu Ireland? 



276 Ireland. 

tmvelled from province to province, and by hia 
eloquence, converted to Christianiiy all who 
heard him. He was permitted to explain the 
sacred truths of Christianity before Lorgerius, 
the chief monarch of the country, and converted 
many members of the royal family. 

5. In a few years, he built a number of 
churches, and founded several monasteries, de- 
signed for the education of persons for the priest- 
hood. He is said to have banished all the vipers 
and noxious animals from the island ; be this 
true or not, one thing is certain, that they will 
not live in the country at the present time. The 
Saint died on the seventeenth of March, in the 
year 465, and in the seventy-eighth year of his 
age. 

6. During the seventh and eighth centuries, 
Ireland was famed for her literary institutions ; 
her schools were crowded by thousands from all 
parts of Europe, and at the same lime, Irish 
scholars were invited to impart instruction in 
foreign countries. Towards the close of the 
eighth century, Ireland was invaded by the 
Danes, who held possession of certain parts of 
the country for more than two hundred years, 
during which period an almost continual war 



Questions. — i. What was he permitted? 5. What did he do? 
What is he said to have done ? When did he die ? G, During the ^ 
seventh and eighth centuries, what is said of Ireland ? Wlien 
was Ireland visited by the Danes ? 



Ireland. 277 

was carried on between the natives and the inva- 
ders. 

7. In the year 1014, the Danes collected their 
forces near Dublin, with the intention of subdu- 
ing the whole country. It happened at this time 
that tfie chief throne of Ireland was occupied by 
the famous Brian Boru. This illustrious mon- 
arch, learning the intention of the Danes, resolved 
to intercept their advance ; and placing himself 
at the head of his army, he marched forward to 
meet them where they were encamped on the 
plains of Clontarf. A fierce and obstinate battle 
followed J which lasted from sunrise until the close 
of the evening, but terminated in the defeat of the 
Danes, who were driven from the field with 
great slaughter. 

8. Brian, who is said to have triumphed in 
fifty battles; was destined to fall in the moment 
of victory, by the hand of an assassin. In 
[the midst of the confusion and carnage that 
Ifollowed the retreat of the Danes, a Danish sol- 
Idier took refuge in a small wood not far from 
Brian's tent. At that moment, the Irish monarch 
was prostrate upon his knees, with his hands up- 
lifted to heaven ; the soldier seeing him thus 
engaged, and almost unattended, rushed into the 

Questions— 7. In 1014, what took^place? Who occupied the 
chief throne ? What did this monarch resolve ? What followed ? 
fe What is said of Brian? Relate the circumstances of his 
ieath ? 

24 



278 Ireland. 

tent, and plunged a dagger into the breast of the 
king. The Danes never recovered from the 
overthrow at Clonlarf; they gradually dimin- 
ished, and finally disappeared from the country. 
9. During the invasion of the Danes, and the 
series of wars that followed, Irish literature natu- 
rally decreased. But as the invaders retired, the 
schools and monasteries, which had been laid in 
ruins, again arose from their ashes ; and during 
the eleventh century, the fame of her literary 
institutions spread abroad, and her shores were 
visited by students from all parts of Europe. 



CHAPTER XLIX. 

Ireland Invaded by Henry II. of England. 

1. As early as the year 1155, the English 
monarch conceived the design of invading Ire- 
land ', but not having any legal right to the 
country, nor any other grounds to justify an in- 
vasion of it, he was compelled to abandon the 
design for the present. Some years after this, an 
event took place which favored his ambitious 
views. Dermot MacMurchad, King of Leinster, 

Questions. — 8. What is said of the Danes ? 9. During the inva- 
sion, &c., what deci-eased? "But as they retired, what is said? 
1. What is said of tlie Englisli monarch? Wliat is said of Der-^i 
mot, &c. ? 



Ireland. 279 

being expelled from Ireland, on account of his 
crimes and cruelty, fled to England, and applied 
to Henry for aid, promising, if restored to his king- 
dom, to hold it as a vassal lo the English crown. 

2. Dermot having received from Henry per- 
mission to raise forces in England, soon suc- 
ceeded in gaining the assistance of several persons 
of distinguished rank. Among these, the Earl 
of Pembroke, surnamed Strongbow, and two 
brothers, Maurice Fitz-Gerald and Robert Fitz- 
Stephen, were the most prominent. Being thus 
successful, Dermot returned to Ireland, and was 
shortly afterwards followed by a strong force of 
English troops, under the command of Robert 
Fitz-Stephen, A.D. 1169. 

3. Dermot immediately joined the invaders, 
and together they made an attack upon Wexford, 
which finally yielded to their arms. Previous to 
the surrender of the city, about seventy of the 
principal inhabitants were taken prisoners by the 
assailants. Every effort was made by their 
fellow citizens to obtain their release, but with- 
out effect ; the invaders had determined on their 
death. The unfortunate prisoners were hurried 
off to the high rocks near the city, where their 
limbs were broken, and the}'^ were then cast into 
the sea. 

Questions.— 2. What did Dermot do ? Who were among these ? 
What followed? 3, What did Dermot do? Who fell into their 
hands ? Relate the manner of their death. 



280 Ireland. 

4. Unfortunately, Ireland at this period was 
greatly dislracted by civil contentions, a circum- 
stance which aided the designs of the English 
monarch, and led to the easy triumph of his arms. 
In the year 1171, Henry himself landed in Ire- 
land, at the head of a considerable army. His 
first care seems to have been to impress upon the 
minds of the people that he had come rather to 
protect them against the oppression of others, 
than to acquire any advantages for himself. This 
refined policy will account for the little resistance 
he met with during his progress through the 
country. 

5. He received the submission of most of the 
chieftains, and finally that of Roderic O'Connor, 
the last chief monarch of Ireland. In 1175, 
a treaty was concluded between Henry and 
Roderic, according to which all the succeed- 
ing kings of Ireland should hold their do- 
minions as tenants or vassals of the English 
crown . 

6. On the death of Roderic, Henry transferred 
the government of Ireland to his son John, then 
a youth in his twelfth year ; but the insolent 
behavior of the young prince soon roused the 
indignation of the Irish chieftains : they flew to 

QnESTioNs. — i. What is said of Ireland ? In 1171 ? What was his 
first care? 5, What did he receive, i-c? In 1175, what took place ? 
6, On the death of Roderic, what did Henry do ? What is said of 
the young prince? 



Ireland. 281 

arms, and in a short time had nearly expelled 
the English from the country. Henry, alarmed 
at the danger which threatened his power in Ire- 
land, recalled the prince, and placed the whole 
power of the government in the hands of De 
Courcy. Such is a brief outline of the estab- 
lishment of the power of Great Britain over Ire- 
land : a power whose foundation rests upon 
treachery and injustice ; and whose career has 
been written in characters of blood, from the 
days of Henry II, to the reign of her present 
majesty, Queen Victoria. 

7. After the execution of the unfortunate 
Charles the First of England, the loyalty of the 
Irish manifested itself in favor of his son, Charles 
the Second. Oliver Cromwell was sent over to 
Ireland by the parliament, to reduce the country 
to subjection. After a protracted siege, he took 
the city of Drogheda, and ordered the garrison to 
be put to the sword. Cromwell next took the 
city of Wexford, where all the horrors of Drog- 
heda were renewed ; the conqueror strictly for- 
bade his soldiers to give quarter. 

8. At the conclusion of the war, the greater 
part of the Irish nobility and gentry had sought 
an asylum in foreign lands ; their estates were 

Questions.— G. What did Henry do ? What is observed ? 7. After 
the execution, &c., what is said? What is said of Cromwell? 
What cities did he take and what followed? 8. What took place 
at the conclusion of the war ? 

24* 



282 Ireland. 

forfeited, and the English parliament prepared ai 
ordinance for setlh'ng the deserted districts of 
Ireland, which declares in its first clause, that it 
was the intention of the English parliament '^ to 
extirpate the Irish nation." By this ordinance, 
which went into effect in 1653, a great portion of 
Ireland was distributed among the followers of 
Cromwell, and the supporters of the parliament. 

9. Nothing of any particular interest occurred 
in the history of Ireland, from this period until 
the dethronement of James the Second. James, 
after being expelled from England, retired to 
France ; but on learning that the Irish were 
faithful to his cause, he repaired to Ireland, and 
proceeding to Dublin, he was received amidst 
the joyous acclamations of the people. William, 
who had succeeded to the English throne, has- 
tened to oppose him. 

10. On the memorable first of July, in the 
year 1090, the two monarchs met on the banks 
of the river Boyne. A fierce and bloody con- 
flict ensued, which was sustained for some time 
with determined bravery on both sides. William 
frequently mingled in the thickest of the fight, 
while James stood upon a distant hill, that he 
might in safety view the contest. When he 



Questions. — 8. By this order what took place? 9. What is said 
of James? Of William ? 10. What took place in 1690? What 
ensued? What is said of William ? Of James? 



i 



Ireland. 283 

beheld the destructive charge of the Irish dra- 
goons, we are told that he exclaimed : '* Spare, 
O spare my English subjects." (Jwing to the 
weakness and cowardice of James, the scale of 
victory turned in favor of William. 

11. Before the fate of the battle was known, 
James fled to Dublin, and embarked for France. 
After his departure, the Irish leaders for some 
time nobly sustained the cause of their country. 
At length, James, having obtained a quantity of 
military stores, and a small force, from the king 
of France, sent them over to Ireland, under the 
command of Saint Ruth, an experienced French 
general. Saint Ruth, after taking command of 
the Irish forces, took up a position near the ruins 
of the castle of Aughrim ; here he was met by 
the English army, under the command of Gen- 
eral Ginckle. 

12. An obstinate battle ensued ; the Irish 
fought with heroic bravery, and the English were 
repulsed at every charge ; a few moments more 
must have sealed their destruction. At this criti- 

, cal juncture. Saint Ruth fell by a cannon ball 
discharged from the enemy's battery. This un- 
fortunate event changed the fortune of the day, 

Questions.— 10, What did he exclaim ? In whose favor did the 

victory turn? 11. What did James do? The Irish leaders? At 

length what did James do? What is said of Saint Ruth? 

12. What ensued? What was the fate of Saint Ruth? What fol- 

'^' lowed ? 



284 Ireland. 

and ihe scale of victory turned in favor of the 
English. 

13. After the battle of Aughrim, the Irish 
forces, under the brave and patriotic Sarsfield, 
retired to the city of Limerick, which was be- 
sieged by the Enghsh. The war, however, was 
soon terminated by a treaty, known by the name 
of the treaty of Limerick. B}^ this treaty, the 
Roman Cathoh'cs were to enjoy the free exercise 
of their religion, and were required to take no 
oath, except that of allegiance. Two days after 
the treaty was signed, a French fleet appeared 
off the coast, with reinforcements, and a large 
supply of military stores. The assistance, how- 
ever, arrived too late ; the honor of the nation 
was pledged by the treaty of Limerick, and the 
fleet was dismissed. 

Questions.— 13. Where did the Irish forces retire? How was 
the war terminated? Wliat is said of the treaty of Limerick? 
Wliat happened two davs after? 



1 



Ireland. 285 

CHAPTER L. 

The Insurrection op 1798. 

1 . For centuries the Irish people had groaned 
under the weight of oppression and tyranny, 
which a despotic government exercised over 
them. Often was the father's heart ready to 
break within his bosom, as he looked upon the 
son of his affection, and reflected on the wretch- 
edness to which tliat son was born ; often had 
the tear of sorrow dimmed the mother's eye, as 
she looked abroad upon the misery that rested on 
her native land, and taught her child for the first 
time to lisp the name of Ireland. 

2. When ready to sink under the weight of 
these accumulated evils, they were cheered with 
the delusive hope that the future would unfold a 
brighter prospect, and open to their view a hap- 
pier era ; but alas, each succeeding year only 
added a new link to the chain of their misery, 
and rendered more bitter the cup of their sorrow. 
However, they still hoped to be able to obtain a 
redress of .their grievances, by the power of 
reason and moral influence. For this purpose, 

I an association, styled the United Irishmen, was 
formed in Dublin during the year 1791. 

Questions.— 1,. What is said of the Irish poople ? Of the father ? 
i Of the mother? 2. How were they cheered, &e. ? What did they 
still hope ? What association was formed? 



286 Ireland. 

3. The leading objects of this association seem 
to have been a pure and disinterested love of 
liberty. It was formed for the purpose, as they 
themselves declared, of forwarding a brotherhood 
of affection, a communion of rights, and a union 
of power among Irishmen of every religious de- 
nomination, and thereby obtain a complete reform 
in the legislature, founded on principles of civil, 
political, and religious libert}^ 

4. Another association grew into existence 
about this time, called the Orange Association. 
The object of this association was to support the 
measures of government, and to oppose reform. 
The first Orange Lodge was formed on the 2lst 
of September, 1795, in the village of Loughall. 
The members pledged themselves by the most 
solemn oath to support and defend the king and 
his heirs, so long as he or they shall support the 
Protestant ascendancy. 

5. Finding their condition hopeless, and des- 
pairing of ever being able to obtain relief of the 
British government by a peaceable course, the 
United Irishmen resolved to appeal to arms, and 
to the more forcible arguments of .the sword. 
They secretly applied to France for aid ; but 
before any effectual assistance could arrive, and 
before their plans could be organized, -the people 

Questions, — 3. What were the leading objects of this associa- 
tion ? 4, What other association was formed ? What was the 
object of it? 5. What did the United Irishmen resolve ? 



Ireland. 287 

were driven into hostilities by tiie cruelty of 
the government. Martial law was proclaim- 
ed in several provinces ; a savage soldiery 
emulated each other in acts of barbarity ; the 
torture of whipping, half hanging, and the 
pitch-cap, were put into active operation, and 
the most liberal rewards were held out to in- 
formers. 

6. Early in the spring of 1798, the insurrec- 
tion broke out in the counties of Kildare and 
Carlow. The first important battle took place at 
Carlow. The Irish, who were armed with 
clumsy pikes and a few muskets, fought with 
desperation ; but they were finally defeated, with 
a loss of four hundred slain, and two hundred 
taken prisoners ; the unfortunate prisoners were 
all executed under martial law. The Irish pa- 
triots defeated the British at Oulart Hill, and 
took the city of VVaterford ; but they lost the 
desperate battle of Bally nahinch. After jthis, 
they entrenched themselves on Vinegar Hill, 
where they were finally defeated by the royal 
army, on the 22d of June. This defeat ter- 
minated the eventful struggle of Ireland for 
her national rights and the redress of her grie- 
vances. 

Questions.— 5. What was proclaimed? What were put iu operation? 
6. In 1798, what took place? How were the Irish armed? What 
was the fate of the prisoners ? Where did they defeat the British ? 
Where did they entrench themselves ? 



288 Ireland. 

7. Shorlly after this event, the question of the 
Union began to be agitated, the object of which 
was to destroy tije National Parliament of Ire- 
land, and oblige her representatives to meet in 1 
the Parliament of England. The measure, at? 
first, was decidedly unpopular, but by an unpar- 
allel degree of bribery and corruption, it was 
carried towards the close of the year J 800. On 
the first of January, 1801, the Union standard 
was, for the first time, mounted on the Bedford 
tower, in Dublin, while the guns from the royal 
battery in the Park, announced to prostrate 
Ireland that her national independence was no 
more. 

8. In 1827, Catholic emancipation was ob- 
tained, chiefly through the exertions of the illus- 
trious O'Connell. By this act, the disabilities 
under which the Catholics had groaned for cen- 
turies, were removed ; they were permitted to 
hold ofiice, and allowed the privilege of voting at 
elections. They are, however, still excluded 
from the throne, and from the office of Lord 
Lieutenant, and Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and 
that of Lord Chancellor of England. 

9. Ireland, though crushed to the earth by the 
iron despotism of England, has been fruitful in 



Questions. — 7. What was the object of the Union ? What is said 
of the measure? In ISOl, what toolv place? 8. In 1827? What 
was the effect of this? From what are they still excluded? 
9. What is said of Ireland ? 



Ireland. i 289 

men of genius, and has given to the world some 
*of the greatest generals, statesmen, orators and 
poets of modern times. The eloquence of the 
patriotic Daniel O'Connell shook the very throne 
of England, and obtained for Ireland what her 
armies could not achieve. The name of this 
great man is identified with his country's history. 
.At an early age he engaged in her cause, and 
for upwards of forty years he labored in her ser- 
vice ! The last few years of his public career 
were spent in endeavoring to obtain a repeal of 
the legislative union between Great Britain and 
Ireland, and thus to restore to Ireland her na- 
tional pariiament. His health at length began 
to decline, and he was advised to travel on the 
continent. He never returned to his native 
land ; he died at Genoa, in Italy, in the seventy- 
eighth year of his age. 

10. Wellington, the hero of Waterloo, and 
perhaps the greatest general of Europe, was an 
Irishman, though a traitor to the land of his na- 
tivity. Ireland's sons, in foreign lands, have 
V frequently acquired imperishable fame. During 
our own revolutionary contest, our armies were 
led to battle and victory by the brave and patriotic 

Questions.— 9. The eloquence of O'Connell? Of his name? 
^ How long did he labor in her service, &c. ? Wnat did he en- 
deavor to obtain ? When did he die ? 10. What is said of Wel- 
:, lington ? 

,'23 



290 Ireland. 

General Montgomery, who finally fell in the I 
noble effort to achieve American liberty. More 
recently, the names of Generals Shields, Reily, 
and others, have reflected honor upon American 
arms, and have acquired renown under the 
banner of their adopted land. 

QOBSTioNS. — 10. What is said of Ireland's sons in foreign lands ?■ 



ITALY. 



CHAPTER LI. 

1. We must go with our young readers to 
Italy, the land of the Cajsars, and standing 
amidst its magnificent and classic ruins, we will 
view its former greatness, and its present beauty. 
At an early period, Romulus laid the foundation 
of Rome, at present a magnificent city, and ruled 
over it for forty years. After his death, the 
monarchy continued for upwards of two hundred 
years ; but at length the regal government was 
abolished and a republic established. After the 
republic had continued for several centuries, it 
was overthrown by Julius Caesar, who seized 
upon the government, and the country became 
an empire. 

2. During the reign of Augustus, the first who 
assumed the title of Emperor, the Roman em- 
pire included within its limits almost the entire 
known world. It had carried its conquests over 
a great part of Asia, a portion of Africa, and 

Questions.— 1. What did Romulus do ? What happened ? What 
continued? By whom was the republic overthrown? 2. During 
the reign of Augustus, what is said ? 



292 Italy. 

nearly all of Europe. Germany was subdued,. 
Spain was conquered, and even Britain had 
yielded fo its arms. Shortly after the promulga- 
tion of Christianity, even before the death of the 
Apostles, the light of the gospel spread over the 
empire. Saint Peter established his see at Rome, 
the capital of the empire ; and St. Paul carried[^ 
the knowledge of Christ within the very palace 
of the Caesars. 

3. Many of the Roman emperors were wicked 
and cruel, and raised violent persecutions against 
the Christians. During the first persecution 
under the tyrant Nero, Saint Peter and Saint 
Paul, the two illustrious Apostles, suffered death. 
Saint Peter was crucified with his head down- 
wards, but Saint Paul, being a Roman citizen,, 
had the honor of dying by the sword. During 
the reign of Constantine the Great, an end was 
put to the persecution of the Christians, and 
Christianity became the religion of the Roman 
empire. 

4. Constantine built the city of Constantinople, 
which he called after his own name, and made 
it the capital of the Roman empire. From this 
period, the empire was generally governed byl 
two emperors, the one residing at Constantinople, 

Questions. — 2. What happened shortly after the promulgation of 
Christianity? 3. What is said of the Roman emperors? Of St. 
Peter and St. Paul ? In the reign of Constantine, what took place ? 
4. What did Constantine do? 



Italy. 293 

and the other at Rome. But by thus dividing 
the power, the empire was greatly weakened. 
A race of people from the north of Germany, 
called the Goths, emerging from their forests, 
began to make inroads upon the fertile plains of 
Italy, and under Alaric, their king, they carried 
their devastations to the very walls of Rome. 

5. This famous city, which for ages had been 
the mistress of the world, and had enriched her- 
self with the spoils of nations, was now besieged 
and finally taken by a people who had often 
trembled at the terror of her name. In 476, 
another barbarous race, called the Heruli, over- 
ran Italy, conquered the country, and compelled 
Romulus Augustus, the last of the Roman em- 
perors, to resign his crown, while Odoacer, their 
leader, assumed the title of the King of Italy. 
This event terminated the Roman empire of the 
w^est. The city of Rome, and a portion of Italy, 
were wrested from the Goths during the reign of 
Justinian, emperor of Constantinople. Italy con- 
tinued for many years to be governed by persons 
appointed by the emperors of Constantinople. 

6. About the middle of the eighth century, 
the Lombards extended their conquests over a 
great part of Italy, and carried their ravages to 

Questions.— 4. What did a race from the north do ? 5. What is 
said of the city? In 476, what took place ? By whom was Italy 
governed? 6. About the middle of the eighth century, what took 
place ? 

25* 



294 Italy. 

the very walls of Rome. In their distress, the 
Roman people applied for assistance to the em- 
peror of Constantinople, in whose name the 
government of Rome was still exercised. The 
emperor, however, neglected to send them aid, 
and they were compelled to apply for assistance 
to Pepin, the king of France. Pepin imme- . 
diately responded lo their call, and having de- ^ 
feated and expelled the Lombards, he bestowed 
his conquered territories in Italy on Pope Stephen 
and his successors in the pontifical chair. It was 
in this manner the Pope was raised to the dignity 
of a temporal prince. The territory which he 
governs, is generally called the Ecclesiastical g 
States. I 

7. The Pope is not only a temporal prince, 
but also the head of the Catholic Church. The 
city of Rome has been, with some slight inter- 
ruptions, the residence of the Popes from ihe 
days of Saint Peter to the present time. Catho- 
lics throughout the world, look to Rome as the 
common centre of unity, and acknowledge the 
sovereign Pontiff as their common father, to 
whom they owe implicit obedience in all matters 
of religion. It is on this account, that they are 
frequently called Roman Catholics, to denote 
that they hold communion with the bishop of 

Questions. — 6. What did the people do ? Where were they com- 
pelled to apply for assistance? What did Pepin do? 7. What is 
said of the Pope ? The city of Rome ? What do Catholics do ? 



Italy. 295 

Rome. Catholics, however, do not hold the 
doctrine, that the Pope has any authority over 
I them in temporal affairs. 

] 8. During the middle ages, the Popes enjoyed 
! many privileges and extraordinary powers. Tliey 
I were frequently appMed to, as to a common 
friend, to settle disputes between contending 
j princes, and it was even inculcated by the laws 
I and usages of that period, that the sovereign 
Pontiff, on some extraordinary occasions, had 
, the power of absolving subjects from their alle- 
giance to their temporal prirrces. This doctrine, 
though it may appear strange to us at the present 
day, was frequently acknowledged by kings and 
emperors themselves. 

9. During the pontificate of Gregory the Sev- 
enth, Henry the Fourth, of Germany, made 
many encroachments upon the rights of the 
church, and carried on a shameful traffic in 
ecclesiastical dignities, bestowing them on those 
who offered him the largest sums of money. 
Gregory, at length, in compliance with the re- 
peated request of his oppressed subjects, excom- 
municated the monarch, and at the same time 
absolved the Germans from their oath of allegi- 
ance to him. At the news of this event, Henry 

Questions.— 7. What do they not hold ? 8, What is said of the 
Popes during the middle ages ? What power had they ? What is 
said of it? 9. During the pontificate of Gregory the Seventh, 
what took place ? What did he at length do ? What did Henry do ? 



296 Italy. 

was alarmed, and hastened towards Italy to seek 
a reconciliation with the Pontiff. The emperor 
presented himself at the gates of the castle, and 
with every expression of grief, acknowledged his 
guilt, and manifested a willingness to make all 
the satisfaction in his power. 

10. Gregory, who had frequently experienced 
the insincerity of Henry, kept him in suspense 
for three days ; at length he gave him an audi- 
ence, and absolved liim on certain conditions. 
The repentance of Henry was of short duration. 
He returned to Gefmany, and having raised a 
powerful army, he entered Italy, and taking the 
city of Rome, he caused the excommunicated 
Bishop of Ravenna to be declared Pope, under 
the title of Clement the Third. In the mean- 
time, Gregory retired to the Castle of St. Angelo, 
where he remained until the arrival of Robert 
Guiscard, the leader of the Normans, who com- 
pelled Henry to retire. During the unsettled 
state of affairs that followed, Gregory, the ven- 
erable Pontiff, removed to Salerno, where he 
shortly afterwards died. A few moments before 
he expired, the holy man made use of these 
words : '* / have loved truth, and hated iniqui- 
ty ; therefore I die in a strange land.^^ A.D. 
1085. 

Questions.— 10. What is said of Gregory? Of Henry? Where 
did Gregory retire ? When and where did he die? What were 
his last words ? 



Italv. 297 

11. The subsequent history of Italy presents 
few events of importance, until the French Revo- 
hiiion. The French overran the ecclesiastical 
states, took I he city of Rome, and dragged the 
venerable pontiff, Pius the Sixth, into France, 
where he died in 1799. During the year 1809, 
Napoleon, the emperor of France, requested 
Pope Pius the Seventh to close his harbors 
against British commerce. To this the Pontiff 
returned a positive refusal, saying that, *^ Being 
the father of all Christian nations, he could not, 
consistently with that character, become the 
enemy of any." 

12. This magnanimous reply so enraged the 
indignation of the emperor, that he immediately 
ordered the dominions of the Pope to be annexed 
to the empire of France. The Pontiff was sent 
into exile, tind remained in captivity until after 
the first dethronement of Napoleon, when he 
again returned to Rome, A.D. 1814. 

13. By a strange dispensation of Providence, 
the heir of Napoleon, the spoliator of the papal 
dominions, became ihe protector of the Pope. 
The great and good Pope Pius IX, was elected 
to the Pontifical throne in 1846. His first acts 
were to grant his subjects all the civil liberties 

Questions.— n. What did the French do? In 1809, what did 
Napoleon request? What did the Pontiff reply? 12. What is 
said of this reply? Wliat became of the Pontiff ? 13. Wiiat liap 
;ipened in 1846? , 



298 Italy. 

that would conduce to their happiness ; but his 
generosity was rewarded by black ingratitude, 
and during the revolutionary troubles that con- 
vulsed Europe in 1848 and 1849, he was 
despoiled of the greater part of his dominions. 

14, Rome was in the possession of the revo- 
lutionists, and the venerable Pontiff was com- 
pelled to seek a refuge at Gaeta, in the kingdom 
of Naples. After an exile of about a year and a 
half, he was reinstated with the aid of the French 
troops of Napoleon III. A French garrison re- 
mained in Rome until the year 1866, when it 
was withdrawn, the king of the new kingdom of 
Italy having pledged himself to protect the eccle- 
siastical states. In 1867, however, the revolu- 
tionist Garibaldi made another attempt to take 
Rome, and the French troops had to be sent 
back to protect the Pope. 

1 5. The invaders were completely defeated by 
the Pontifical troops, and tranquility was restored ; 
but the temporal power of the Pope is still 
threatened by the political fanatics of the old 
world. Calm and serene, immovable like the 
rock amidst the angry billows, Pius the Ninth 
presents the grandest figure of modern times. 

Questions. — 14. What became of Pius IX.? How long did the 
French troops remain? Wliat happened in 1867? 15. What was 
the result? 



THE MIDDLE AGES. 



CHAPTER LII. 

1. The period from the close of the fifth 
century to the beginning of the fourteenth, is 
generally known by the name of the Middle 
Ages. Some writers, however, only enumerate 
the ninth, tenth and eleventh centuries as the Mid- 
dle Ages. During the greater part of this period 
the different nations ofEuropewere either engaged 
in foreign wars, or distracted by domestic feuds. 

2. The manners and customs of the people 
during these ages, were very different from what 
they are at the present day. They were not so 
generally educated as persons at the present time, 
because they did not enjoy the same facihties of 
acquiring an education. Before the invention of 
the art of printing, all books were transcribed, 
or written with a pen. The labor of transcribing 
a book was very great, and the process slow ; 
hence the number of books was very limited. 
This circumstance tended in a great degree to 
retard the progress of science. 

3. It must not, however, be presumed that the 

Questions. — 1. What period is called the Middle Ages? What 
do some writers enumerate, &e. ? 2. What is said of the manners, 
&c. ? Before the art of printing, what is said of books ? 3. What 
must not be presumed? 

299 



300 The Middle Ages. 

people were entirely deslitute of education, or 
that universal ignorance at any time prevailed. 
It is true, at certain times, literature was ne- 
glected, particularly by the nobles, who followed 
ahiiost exclusively the profession of arms ; but at 
thesame time the most strenuous efforts were made 
by the clerg}^ and the prelates of the church, to 
keep alive the sacred flame of science, and to dif- 
fuse instruction among the people. In the coun- 
cil of Touljheld in theyearS59, the bishops and 
princes of Europe were earnestly recommended 
to establish public schools, for the purpose of 
teaching sacred science and polite literature. 

4. The monasteries and abbeys, during the 
Middle Ages, were the asylums of learning. 
Here, secluded from the splendor of the court, 
and the turmoil of the camp, the zealous monks 
and virtuous nuns, taught, without distinction, the 
children of the rich and the poor. The branches 
taught to the children of those days, were of the 
more useful and solid kind. Of these, seven 
were termed the liberal arts, and were almost 
universally taught ; namely, grammar, logicj 
rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and! 
music. Besides these, Hebrew, Greek, Latin, 
and philosophy were carefully studied. 

Questions. — 3. Bjf^ whom was literature neglected ? What did the 
clergy do? What was done in the council of Toul ? 4. What is said 
of the monasteries? What did the Monks and Nuns do? What 
were the branches taught, &c. ? 



I 



The Middle Ages. 301 

1 5. The Middle Ages were particularly distin- 
guished by the Monastic Institutions, the rise of 
Mafiometanism, the Crwsarfes and C/iivalry. 

j Monastic Institutions. — The monasteries 
land abbeys were religious institutions, designed 
for the reception of those who desired to relire 
jfrom the world, and to pass their days in prayer, 
and in works of penance and mortification. 
Those who inhabited the monasteries were called 
Monks; while the occupants of such female insti- 
tutions were styled Nuns. These institutions were 
governed by sirict rules. The inmates had their 
various duties assigned them. While some were 
employed in transcribing books, others were en- 
gaged in teaching in the academies, attached to 
their instiluiions; others were occupied in manual 
labor, in attending the dutiesof the farm, or the gar- 
den or other domestic affairs ; they had at the same 
time certain hours set apartfor devotional exercises. 

6. Mahometanism. — Mahomet, the founder 
of Mahometanism, was a native of Arabia, and 
was born at Mecca, in the year 570. He pre- 
tended that he had received a divine commission 
to restore the Jewish and the Christian religion, 

QoESTiONS. — 5. By what were the Middle Ages distinguished ? 
"What were the monasteries ? Who were the Blonks ? The Nuns ? 
What is said of these institutions ? How were the inmates em- 
ployed ? 6. Who was Mahomet ? What did he pretend ? 

26 



302 The Middle Ages. 

which he maintained had fallen from their primitive 
purit3^ Being suliject to certain fits, he attributed 
them to the visits of the Archangel Gabriel^ by 
whom he pretended he was taught, but whose 
presence he could not bear without convulsions. 

7. The two leading principles of his religion 
were, that ^^ there is but one God, and that, 
Mahomet is his prophet." The Kora?i, thej 
book which contains his doctrine, was compiled' 
chiefly by a Nestorian Monk, as Mahomet him- 
self could neither read nor write. He propa- 
gated his religion by the sword, and stimulated the 
courage of his followers by the promise of a mar- 
tyr's crown in paradise, to every one who should 
fall in battle. He even taught, ^' that to fight for 
the faith was an act of obedience to God." 

8. A popular tumult being raised against him 
in his native city, Mecca, he fled to Medina. His 
flight on that occasion is called the Hegira, and 
forms the Mahometan era, which corresponds 
with the year 622 of our era. Mahomet died at 
Medina, in the sixty-third year of his age. A.D.f 
633. His tomb remains there to the present 
time, aroimd which three hundred lamps are 
kept constantly burning. 

Questions. — 6. Being subject to fits, to what did he ascribe them ? 
7, What were the leading principles of his religion? By whom 
was the Koran compiled ? How did he propagate his religion ? ' 
What did he teach ? 8. What is his flight called, &c. ? Where did 
hre die ? What is said of his tomb ? 



r 



THE CEUSADES. 



CHAPTER LIII. 

1. The Crusades were military expeditions, 
undertaken by the Christians of Europe for the 
purpose of delivering the Holy Land from the 
dominion of the Turks. As early as the year 
637, the city of Jerusalem fell into the hands of 
the Saracens, but the Christians were permitted, 
for political reasons, to visit the holy places. In 
]()65, the city was taken by a wild and ferocious 
tribe of Tartars ; from this time, the Christian 
inhabitants were exposed to every species of in- 
sult. The Christians of Europe, actuated by 
motives of religion, were accustomed to visit the 
places hallowed by the footsteps, and sanctified 
by the tears and sufferings of the Saviour of man. 
But after reaching the holy city, they were ex- 
posed, like the other Christian inhabitants, to all 
the rigors of Mahometan cruelty. 

2. Such was the condition of Palestine when 
Peter the Hermit, a native of Amiens, in France, 



Questions.— 1. What were the Crusades? In 637, what took 
place? And in 1065? What is said of the Christians of Europe? 
2. What did Peter the Hermit do? 

OKJtJ 



304 The Crusades. 

imderlook a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Peter was 
greatly moved by the sufferings of the Chris- 
tians in Asia, and prevailed upon Simon, the 
venerable Patriarch of Jerusalem, to write to the 
Pope, and to the princes of Europe, for the pur- 
pose of soliciting their aid in arresting the tyranny 
exercised against the Christinns of the East. 
Peter inunediately returned to Europe, and pre- 
sented himself before Pope Urban the Second. 
He was kindly received by the Pontiff, who 
readily entered into his views, and commissioned 
him to go forth and preach in favor of the suffer- 
ing Christians of Palestine, and the deliverance 
of Jerusalem from the hands of the infidels. 

3. Peter went forth, and travelled through 
Italy, Prance, and other countries, and by his 
eloquence, induced thousands to engage in the 
sacred expedition. The subject was finally 
brought before a council, held at Clermont, in 
France, towards the close of the year 1095. 
The Pope himself, addressed the assembled 
bishops and princes, and at the conclusion of 
his discourse, the whole assembly exclaimed : — 
** It is the will of God!^^ As a mark of their 
engagement, it was proposed that a cross of some 
red material should be worn upon the right 
shoulder, and from this circumstance, these wars 

Questions. — 2. How was he received, &c. ? 3. Where did he 
travel ? Where was the subject brought ? What did the Pope do ? 
From what is the word Crusade derived ? 



The Crusades. 305 

received the name of Crusades. Such were the 
circumstances that called the Crusades into being. 

4. Many of the most distinguished princes of 
Europe at that time engaged in the first Crusade ; 
among these, Raymond, count of Toulouse ; 
Robert, brother of the king of England ; Hugh 
the Great, brother of the king of France, and 
Godfrey, duke of Lorraine. After many diffi- 
culties, they took the city of Jerusalem, and es- 
tablished there a Christian kingdom, of which 
the duke of Lorraine was chosen the first king. 
The difficulties that surrounded the new kingdom 
of Jerusalem, soon obliged the Christians of 
Palestine to apply for aid to their brethren in 
Europe. This called forth a second Crusade. 
But before any effectual assistance could be ren- 
dered, Jerusalem fell again into the hands of the 
Turks. 

5. Several other Crusades were undertaken to 
gain possession of the Holy City, but it was never 
effectually recovered ; and it remains to the pres- 
ent day under the dominion of the infidels. The- 
Crusades were eight in number ; and during^ 
their continuance, nearly two millions of Euro- 
peans are said to have been buried in the East.. 
Though they failed to accomplish their primary 

Questions. — 4. Who were soine of the princes of Europe, at that 
time ? What did they do ? Who was chosen king ? What folllow- 
ed? 5. What were undertaken? What was the number of the- 
Crusades ? 

26* 



306 Chivalry. 

object, they were, fiovvever, in many respects, 
beneficial to the people of Europe. By the fre- 
quent voyages to Palestine, the art of navigation 
and ship building were rapidly improved ; hence, 
from this period may be dated the great commer- 
cial prosperity of many of the nations of Europe. 

6. Chivalry, or Knighthood ^ was a military 
institution which prevailed in Europe during the 
Middle Ages. Its early history is involved in 
obscurity ; but its leading features may be traced 
to the Gothic nations, among which the profes- 
sion of arms alone was deemed honorable. Chiv- 
alry embraced several orders of knights, some of 
which remain to the present day. Of these, the 
Knights Hospitallers, afterwards distinguished 
as the Knights of Malta, and the Knights Tem- 
plars, were the most distinguished. The princi- 
pal object of these orders, was to protect and 
defend the Christians of the Holy Land against 
the attacks and the insults of the infidels. 



C^UESTioNS. — 5. What were some of the benefits of the Crusades? 
.8. What was chivalry? What is said of its early history? What 
.did it embrace ? What were the most distinguished orders ? 
What was their object? 



PROGRESS OF CIVILIZATIOIN". 



CHAPTER LIV. 

j 1. We have seen in the history of modern na- 
tions, ihat in their origin they were no more 
than savage tribes, led by some warlike chief. 
!In those early times, the law oi might prevailed ; 
the strong crushed the weak, and the people were 
[divided in two classes : the warriors, or free men, 
whose business it was to fight and govern, and 
the laborers, or slaves, who tilled the land. 
Christianity, by its teachings, softened the rude 
chiefs, and elevated the degraded vassals, whilst 
commerce, by bringing together the various na- 
tions, created a middle class, and society was 
organized. 

2. During the period preceding the middle 
ages, men lived in the grossest ignorance and 
superstition. Very few persons could even read, 
and, in Aict, study was considered as beneath 
the attention of those who followed the profession 
of arms. The monks, alone, devoted them- 



QuESTioNS. — 1. Tell us something of modern nations in the 
origin. 2. What was the condition of society before the Middle 
Ages? _ 

307 



308 Progress of Civilization. 

selves to science, and to the education of youth 
who were taken principally from the ranks of the 
people, and called clerks or scribes ; these did 
all the writing and reading for their lords and 
patrons. The earliest and most important inven- 
tions and discoveries came to light in the monas- 
teries — the peaceful abode of the early votaries of 
science. 

3. In the ninth century, knowledge became 
more generally diffused, under the enlightened 
rulers who held sway over the principal countries 
of Europe, and has steadil}^ extended, until, in 
our days, it has taken precedence of birth and 
wealth. 

4. Under the first kings of France and Eng 
land, the homes of the wealthiest lords were fa 
less comfortable than the log cabin of our poorest 
back- woodsman. Chimneys were unknown ; 
the fire was built on a large, flat stone, in the 
middle of the room, and the smoke ascended 
through a hole in the roof. A few rudely shaped 
vessels of coarse earthenware, were the only 
household utensils used ; the dagger served as d| 
carving knife, and spoons and forks were nof 
known . 

3. Window-glass was first used in the churches 
towards the middle of the fourth century ; bells 

Questions. — 3. What change took place in the ninth century ? 
4. Describe the homes of the wealthy in those times. 5. What 
discovery was made in the fourth century ? 



I 

I 



Progress of Civilization. 309 

were made during the sixth, and organs intro- 
duced during the seventh century. About the 
same time, the first candles were made for com- 
mon use. ' 

6. Efforts were made to estabh'sh wise laws, 
but superstition often defeated the object of the 
law-giver. For instance, when there was not 
sufficient evidence to convict or acquit the ac- 
cused, (he Judge deferred the case to the '^ Judg- 
ment of God." This was either a duel between 
the accuser and the accused, or certain ordeals 
through which the latter had to pass. It was 
believed that God would protect and shield the 
innocent ; but it would have required a miracle 
to pass unscathed through such tests as the fol- 
lowing : 

7. The test of fire : which was to walk bare- 
footed on red-hot iron plates, or to place the hand 
in a heated steel gauntlet. The boiling water 
ordeal : plunging the naked arm in a basin of 
boiling water. The cold wateriest : which con- 
sisted in the accused being bound hand and foot 
and thrown into a large tank of cold water. If 
he floated, he was declared innocent. These 
ordeals, and many others as cruel, disappeared 
gradually, but (he judiciary duel was still in use 
in the fifteenth century. 



Questions —5. In the sixth? In the seventh? 6, Tell xis about 
the laws. 7. Describe these ordeals ? 



310 Progress op Civilization. 

8. Family crests and coat-of-arms originated 
during the Crusades, and became hereditary. 
Previous to that time, the knights chose fanciful 
emblems and mottoes, which they changed at will. 

In 989, a monk named Gerbert, who was sub- 
sequently pope, under the name of Sylvester II, 
invented the pendulum clock. 

About the same time, the Italian Gui d'Ar- 
rezzo invented the system of dividing music into 
parts, and the gamut. | 

The nautical compass came into use in the 
beginning of the thirteenth century. 

9. During the fourteenth century, the two 
most important inventions were those of glass 
spectacles, and the manufacture of paper from 
rags. Previously, papyrus and parchment were 
used. 

But the following century was to bring a dis- 
covery of still greater importance. The art of 
engraving letters on blocks of wood or ivory, had 
been long known, when, in 1450, the German 
Guttenberg invented the art of printing by means 
of metallic types. 

The secret of oil painting was discovered about 
the same period. 

10. Gunpowder, discovered during the I3th| 

Questions. — 8. What originated during the Crusades? Who in- 
vented the clock? The division of music? What was invented 
in the thirteenth century ? 9. In the fourteenth ? 10. What about 
gunpowder? 



Progress op Civilization. 311 

ceniury, was not used in war until the 14th. 
Cannon was first made, then firelocks, and finally 
pistols. This invention gave the death-blow to 
chivahy. The knights, who relied on their per- 
sonal courage and vigor, were now at the mercy 
of the weakest coward, who could speed a bullet, 
in perfect safety, from a distance of a hundred 
yards. The gallant institution of chivalry dis- 
appeared rapidly, whilst the ])rofession of arms 
became more general. 

11. The discovery of America, in 1492, gave 
a new impulse to commerce and navigation. 
The new world was, at first, a field for the ad- 
venturous, the ambitious and the avaricious; it 
soon became a place of refuge for the persecuted 
of the old world. 

America gave to Europe the polatoe, tobacco, 
and cane-sugar ; and soon after coffee was intro- 
duced from Arabia. 

12. The seventeenth century is remarkable for 
the development of the arts and sciences, and the 
extraordinary impulse given to literature. 

Military discipline and tactics, and uniformity 
in the dress and equipment of the troops, were 
introduced during the seventeenth century. 

13. Among the important discoveries and in- 
ventions made during the eighteenth century, we 

Questions.— 11. What event of importance took place in 1492 ? 
12. For what is the seventeenth century remarkable? 13. The 
eighteenth ? 



,1 



312 Progress of Civilization. 

must mention the phenomena of electricity ; the 
chronometer, so useful to navigators ; inoccuKi- 
tion and vaccination, which have saved thousands 
of lives ; the invention of balloons^ which seem 
destined to reach a degree of perfection that wi 
enable man to control the air as he controls the 
earth and the sea ; and tlie discovery of the light- 
ning-rod. 

14. The present century has brought the most 
valuable discoveries and inventions of preceding 
ages to a wonderful degree of perfection ; and it 
has given us, besides, railroads, steamers, and 
the magnetic telegraph. ■ 

The student can follow the gradual progression^ 
of civilized society, marked by these useful in 
ventions and discoveries. While war and vio^ 
lence have desolated countries and divided 
nations, the peaceful pursuit of science and art 
has conferred everlasting benefits upon mankind, 
and bound together more closely the great human 
family. 

QoESTioN. — 14. The present century ? 



SPAIN. 



CHAPTER LT. 

1. Tlie people of Spain, or of Iberia, as it was 
fornrierly styled, is one of the oldest in Europe, 
and the one, perhaps, in which we find ihe 
greatest mingling of races. The Cells, who 
originally peopled that country, were civilized 
by the Phoenicians, who buih the city of 
Cadiz, 900 years B.C. Subsequently, the Car- 
thaginians took possession of Spain, and held 
it until the destruction of their power by the 
Romans. 

2. Early in the fifth century, the Suevi and 
other barbarian tribes from the north, invaded 
Spain, and wrested that province from the Ro- 
mans. Soon after this conquest, the country 
was subdued by the Visigoths who founded there 
a monarchy. In the eighth century the Gothic 
kings were overthrown by the Saracens, or Moors, 
the followers of Mahomet. 



Questions.— 1. What is the origin of the Spaniards? 2. What 
happened from the fifth century to the eighth ? 

27 313 



3J4 Spain. 

3. The Moors built many fine cities, and 
divided the conquered territory into several inde- 
pendent sovereignties or cahphates ; but their 
sway was far from peaceful, for the Christians 
made war continually upon those infidels. — | 
These contests lasted several centuries, the 
Moors graduall}?^ losing their possessions, until, 
in the year 1479, the fall of Granada ter- 
minated their empire. Spain, whicli, during 
this protracted struggle, had been divided into 
several sovereignties, now became united into 
one monarchy, under Ferdinand and Isabella. 

4. The reign of these wise and great sovereigns 
was marked by the most important event of 
modern times : fhe discovery of America by 
Christopher Columbus. Spain then became the 
leading power in Europe. In 1520, Charles I, 
who then reigned, was elected emperor of Ger- 
many, under the name of Charles V, and thus 
his dominion was extended over Germany, 
the Netherlands, and a part of Italy. He 
had besides immense possessions in the New 
World. 

5. Charles had to sustain long and bloody 
wars, principally with Francis I, of France, who 
had been his rival for the irifiperial crown. He 

Questions. — 3. Tell us about the Moors in Spain. 4. What im- 
portant event took place during this reign ? What happened in 
1520 ? 5. Tell us about the reign of this prince ? 



Spain. 315 

fWas eventually successful ; and, at the very 
.time when peace and prosperity had been estab- 
lished in his vast empire, the great emperor 
^astonished the world by resigning his throne 
,and authority into the hands of his son Philip, 
^and retiring to the monastery of St. Just, where 
he remained in peaceful seclusion until his 
jdeath. 

j 6. The most important event of the reign of 
jPhilip II, was the loss of the Low countries, or 
.Netherlands, whose people revolted and suc- 
ceeded in gaining their independence, after a 
bloody struggle. These provinces formed a con- 
federation under the title of the Seven United 
Provinces of Holland. 

T. The history of Spain from this period 
presents few events of great importance, until 
he invasion by the French, which drove Ferdi- 
nand VII. from the Spanish throne, and placed 
hereon Joseph Bonaparte, the brother of the 
emperor Napoleon. The Spaniards rose in 
lerce opposition to the invaders of their soil, 
md, with the assistance of the English, suc- 
ceeded in expelling the French, after the long 
md bloody contest known as the Peninsular 
var. 

8. Spain gradually lost nearly all her American 



' Questions.— 6. What happened under Philip II,? 7. What are 
ihe interesting event in the subsequent history of Spain ? 



316 Spain. 

possessions; and, torn by civil dissentions, that 
nation, once so proud, declined rapidly into com- 
paralive insignificance. Of late years, she seerns 
to have once more entered the road of progress, 
and, by judicious reforms, to be endeavoring to 
secure that internal tranquillity so necessary to 
national prosperity. 



Question. — 8. What followed, and what is the present condition 
of that country ? 



PORTUGAL. 



CHAPTER LVI. 

1. Portugal has one common origin wilh Spain, 
of which it was formerly a part. In 1139, the 
Portuguese threw off tlie yoke of Spain, and 
formed an independent kingdom, with Alphonso 
iL, as their king. 

2. Portugal sustained many successful wars 
against the Moors and the Spaniards, and became 
distinguished by the progress her seamen made 
in navigation. Prom 1418 to the middle of the 
following century, these hardy navigators made a 
large number of discoveries, not the least import- 
ant of which were the discovery of the Cape of 
Good Hope, in 1481, by Bartholomew Diaz^ 
and the doubling of this cape, in 1497, by 
Vasco de Gama, who accomplished the first 
voyage to the Indies. 

3. In 1580, Portugal was seized upon by 
iPhilip II, who united it to the crown of Spain ; 
but the Spaniards were driven out of the country, 

Questions.— 1. What is the origin of Portugal ? 2. For what did 
Portugal become distinguished? What discoveries did they 
fjnake ? 3. What happened in 1580, and 1640? 

27# 317 



318 Portugal. 

in 1640, by (he Duke of Braganza, who was 
crowned king. 

4. The Portuguese had preserved their Bra- 
zilian possessions. In 1823, Brazil was declared 
an independent empire, and the regent, Don 
Pedro, was proclaimed emperor. King John VI, 
of Portugal, having died, Don Pedro, who was 
his eldest son, resigned his claim to the crown of 
Portugal in favor of his young daughter. Dona 
Maria da Gloria ; but Don Miguel, a 3^ounger 
son of King John, usurped the throne. The 
usurper was subsequently expelled, and the 
crown restored to the lawful heir. 



Question. — i. Tell us about the empire of Brazil. 



# 



POLAN^D. 



CHAPTER LVII. 

1. Although the name of Poland has been 
stricken out from the list of nations by the ruth- 
less hand of grasping tyranny, that name will 
ever awake feelings of respectful sympathy in all 
who honor courage and patriotism. 

2. Pounded in the sixth century, the kingdom 
of Poland attained some pre-eminence only in 
the early part of the fifteenth century. Cassimir 
III, surnamed the Great, who then occupied the 
throne, was a sovereign of uncommon wisdom 
and ability. By the wise laws which he pro- 
mulgated, and the encouragement he gave to 
commerce and industry, he secured the prosperity 
of his kingdom. An enlightened patron of learn- 
ing, he founded the University of Cracow, which 
acquired great celebrity. 

3. In 1506, Sigismund I. ascended thethrone, 
and under his wi^e rule Poland soon attained a 
high degree of prosperity, which she preserved 



Questions,— 1. What have you to say about Poland ? 2. When 
. was that kingdom founded and what is its early history? 3. What 
happened in 1506 ? 

319 



320 Poland. 

under his successors for nearly a hundred years, 
but continued wars with her neighbors, the Rus- 
sians and the Turks, gradually weakened her, 
and she began to decline. 

4. In 1674, John Sobieski, a man of great 
military talents, and eminent civil virtues, was 
proclaimed King of Poland. He vanquished 
the Turks, and restored peace and prosperity to 
his kingdom. His reign, which lasted twenty- 
two years was an era of happiness for the Poles. 

5. The national prosperity of Poland may be 
said to have ended with the death of the great 
Sobieski. The throne remained vacant for 
twelve months, after which, Frederick Augus- 
tus, elector of Saxony, was proclaimed king. 
This prince declared war against Charles XII, 
king of Sweden, and was defeated and compelled 
to abdicate the crown. Subsequently, however, 
he displaced his successor, Stanislaus, and re- 
gained his dominions, which, after his death, 
passed to his son Frederick Augustus II. 

6. After the reign of this prince, Poland was 
torn by civil dissentions, excited by the surround- 
ing powers, who finally accomplished their unjust 
projects in 1772, by dismembering that unfortu- 
nate country. Russia, Prussia and Austria seized 
upon the richest provinces of Poland, and com- 

QuESTiONs.— 4. In 1674? 5. What took place after Sobieski's 
death? 6. What followed 



Poland. 321 

pelled her to sanction her own spoliation by leg- 
islative enactment. 

7. A new division was made by these three 
powers, in 1793, afier the successful invasion of 
Poland by Russia — a war in which the gallant 
Kosciusko, who had recently taken such an ac- 
tive part in the American Revolutionary war, 
commanded in chief the army of his unfortunate 
countrymen. In 1795, Stanislaus, the last king 
of Poland, died, and what remained of his former 
dominions was seized upon by the three crowned 
robbers. 

8. Thus was a brave and independent nation 
crushed out of existence by the unjust and wicked 
rapacity of its stronger neighbors. Europe was 
convulsed by the wars arising from the great 
French revolution, arid the dismemberment of 
Poland was permitted by the other nations, who 
were too busily engaged with their own troubles. 
The Poles have made several efforts to regain 
their liberty, but the fruits of these efforts have 
been new sufferings for this ill- fated people. 

Questions. — 7. Was another division made? What followed? 
8- Tell us about the subeequent fate of Poland? 



RUSSIA. 



CHAPTER LYIII. 

1. The early history of the tribes of northern 
barbarians who founded the empire of Russia is 
involved in much obscurity. These tribes con- 
tin uail}'^ at war with each olher, were at length 
partially subjugated by the Tartars. In the 
fifteenth century, the invaders were finally over- 
come by John Basilowitz, who consolidated thel 
greater part of Russia under the government of^ 
a czar or emperor. 

2. But Russia could scarcely claim rank 
among the civilized nations of Europe, until the 
reign of Peter the Great, who succeeded to the 
throne in 1689. Coarse, ignorant and impetu- 
ous, the victim of a neglected education and of 
naturally fierce passions, Peter had much to 
contend with at his advent to power. But 
he was gifted with extraordinary energy and 
uncommon mental abilities ; he resolved to raise 
his people to the rank of civilized nations, and 

Questions. — 1. What do we know about the early history of Rus- 
sia? Who ascended the throne in 1689 ? What was the character 
of tliis prince ? 

322 



Russia. 323 

he commenced to qualify himself for this task, 
by the most persevering practical study. 

3. Under the dress of a common laborer, he- 
found employment in the dock-yards of Holland 
and England, and during sixteen months, he 
worked daily to learn the art of ship-building. 
On his return he created a navy. He sent his 
young nobles to the different courts of Europe, 
and he himself subsequently visited these foreign 
countries, in order to study their laws and cus- 
toms. He sustained several wars against the 
Turks, and a long, but eventually successful 
contest with the warlike Charles XH., King of 
Sweden, whom he vanquished at Pultawa. 

4. Peter's indomitable courage, the extraordi- 
nary abilities he manifested in the government 
of his empire, certainly entitled him to the sur- 
name of Great ; but if, forgetting the monarch, 
we look only for the man, we find the vile and 
ferocious instincts of the brute. Intemperance, 
and the other vices which usually accompany it, 
degraded the private character of the czar. 

5. The empress Catharine, a peasant girl 
whom Peter had married, succeeded to the 
throne after his death. Her reign, which lasted 
two years, was prosperous. So was the short 
reign of Peter H., and that of his niece, Anne, 



Questions. — 3. How did he proceed? 4, Was Peter truly Great? 
5. What followed after Peter's death ? 



324 Russia. 

who succeeded him. After Anne's dealh, her 
infant heir, John, was deposed, and the crown 
given to Elizabeth, the daughter of Peter the 
Great. 

6. Ehzabeth seems to have inherited much 
of her father's great talents, with his vices. 
During her brilliant reign, the Russian arms were 
constantly victorious, and Russia ceased to be 
looked upon as a country of half civilized barba- 
rians. 

7. The successor of Elizabeth was her nephew, 
Peter III. This weak prince was dethroned by 
his wife, Catherine of Anhalt, and afterwards 
assassinated. Catherine was proclaimed em- 
press, under the title of Catherine II. Possessed 
of extraordinary abilities, she attracted the eyes 
of all Europe upon her court, patronized the 
arts and sciences, encouraged manufactures, and 
greatly extended her dominions by important 
conquests. But whilst she showed greatness as 
a sovereign, she vi^as, in private life, a bad and 
vicious woman. 

8. Catherine's son, Paul, who succeeded her, 
was a tyrant. He was assassinated, after a short 
reign, A. D. 1801. His eldest son, Alexander I, 
succeeded to the throne. This prince showed 
much wisdom and talent for government, and 



Questions.— 6. What have you to say of Elizabeth ? 7. What of [ 
Catharine II. ? 8. Who were Catharine's successors ? 



Russia. 325 

ibecame very popular. He joined Austria against 
[Napoleon the First, and was defeated in several 
flbattJes. 

I 9. A peace was signed at Tilsit, but hostilities 
|Vvere resumed in 1812, when Napoleon invaded 
jRussia. The Russians gave proof of their sav- 
jage heroism by burning their beautiful city, Mos- 
cow, after it had been entered by the victorious 
^enemy. The grand French army, which seemed 
invincible, could not withstand the rigors of a 
'Russian winter. These veteran troops perished 
jby thousands from the excessive cold, as they 
^retraced their steps over the snow-covered, barren 
soil. 

10. Alexander died in 1825, and was suc- 
iceeded by his brother Nicholas I, This prince 
! showed marked ability as a ruler, and during 

the early years of his reign waged successful 
war against the Prussians and Turks. His 
Irneasures towards the unfortunate Poles, how- 
lever, were tyranical and cruel, and have left 
an indelible stain on his character. 

11. In 1853, Nicholas again declared war 
against the Turks, and invaded their territory. 
This involved Russia in a war with France and 
England, the allies of Turkey, which is known 
as the Crimean war, Crimea having been the 

Questions. — 9. Did peace reign after this ? 10. Who succeeded 
Alexander? 11. What happened in 1853, and what was tlie conse- 
I'quence ? 

28 



326 Russia. 

theatre of hostilities. This war, commenced in 
1854, lasted two years, and ended in the defeat 
of the Russians, and the fall of their famous 
stronghold, Sebastapol. Nicholas died during 
this siege, and was succeeded to the throne by 
his son, Alexander II., the present czar. 

Questions.— 11. How long did the war last and how did it end ? 
Who is the present czar of Russia? 



PRUSSIA 



CHAPTER LIX. 

1. The Duchy of Prussia was united to the 
Electorate of Brandenburg in 1594, and became 
!a kingdom in 1701, under Frederick I. In 
1740, Frederick II., styled the Great, succeeded 
|:o the throne, and signalized his accession to 
jpower by the conquest of Silesia. This great 
ivarrior then turned his arms against Saxony, 
and so alarmed Europe by his conquests, that an 
alliance was formed against him by France, 
Russia, and Austria. The war lasted seven 
^ears, and its termination left Frederick in the 
peaceful enjoyment of his possessions. 

2. Frederick gave much attention to the devel- 
Dpment of agriculture, manufactures and com- 
Tierce, and was an enlightened protector of litera- 
:ure ; but what principally engrossed his care, 
was the organization of his army. He made of 
he Prussian soldiers perfect models of discipline ; 

Questions. — What is the origin of the Kingdom of Prussia? 
What king succeeded to the throne in 1740? 2. To what did Fred- 
.;riek turn liis attention after the seven years war ? 

327 



328 Prussia. 

living machines to be moved at will. He died 
in 1786, aged seventy-four years. 

3. Frederick William II. succeeded to the 
throne. His short reign was marked by no 
important event, and he was succeeded by his 
son, Frederick William III., in 1797. The 
reign of (his prince was made memorable by 
the part which he took in the French war. 
Defeated by Napoleon at Jena, and deprived 
of half of his dominions by the treaty of Tilsit, 
he was destined to give the last blow to the 
great conqueror : the arrival of the Prussian 
troops under Blucher decided the fate of the 
battle of Waterloo and the downfall of Napo- 
leon. 

4. The present king of Prussia is Frederick 
William IV. Under his rule, Prussia seems to 
be returning to the brilliant days of Frederick 
the Great. In 1863, Prussia and Austria joined 
in a most unjust war against Denmark, and com- 
pelled that power to cede the duchies of Schless- 
wig, Holslein, and Lauenburg. 

5. The two allies then quarreled over the 
spoils, and Prussia united with Italy to invade 
the Austrian territory. Austria was vanquished 
at the battle of Sadowa, and lost not only the 



Questions. — 3. What about Frederick William II.? What made 
the reign of Frederick William III. remarkable? 4. Who is the 
present king of Prussia ? What happened in 1863 ? 5. Did Prussia 
and Austria remain friends ? 



Prussia. 329 

duchies of which she had hoped to rob Denmark, 
but also Venetia, which is now part of Italy. 
Prussia now finds herself at the head of the 
German confederation, and is one of the leading 
powers of Europe. 

Question. — 5. What was the result of this last war ? 



28* 



m 



G E R M A T^ Y. 



CHAPTER LX. 

1. The independent principalities into vvhicl 
Germany was formerly divided, became consoli- 
dated when Charlemagne established the new 
Empire of the West. In 843, this empire was 
divided into three monarchies, France, Germany 
and Italy ; the title of Empire remaining to 
Germany. 

2. The reigns of a long line of German em- 
perors who succeeded to the throne, from th( 
foundation of the empire to the year 1264, pre- 
sent few events of importance, save continua^ 
quarrels with the popes about their possessions ii 
Italy. In the last mentioned year, Rodolphus, 
count of Hapsburg, ascended the imperial throne, 
and became the founder of the present house of 
Austria. 

3. One of the greatest sovereigns of this house 
was Maria Theresa, who claimed the throne left 
vacant by the death of her father, Charles VI, in 

Questions. — 1. Tell us about the early history of Germany. 
2. What happened from the foundation of the empire to the 
year 1264? 3. What great sovereign claimed the throne in 1740? 

330 



Germany. 331 

1740. There was no male heir. Charles, dec- 
or of Bavaria, disputed the claims of the prin- 
cess. A contest ensued, which is known as the 
war of the Austrian Succession. In 1748, Ma- 
ria Theresa, was finally acknowledged the right- 
ful empress of Austria. She governed the empire 
wisely during seventeen years. 

4. In 1804, Napoleon compelled Francis II. 
of Austria to resign the title of Emperor of Ger- 
many, and to absolve the German states from 
their allegiance. Since that time the German 
empire has ceased to exist ; but, after the fall of 
Napoleon, the German states formed a new union, 
called the Germanic Confederation, over which 
the emperor of Austria presided. 

5. After the disastrous war of 1866, with 
her former ally, Prussia, Austria was compelled 
to renounce taking any part in a new confedera- 
tion, formed under the auspices of Prussia, and 
the latter power has become the ruling spirit of 
German3^ 

Questions,— 3. Tell us about her? 4. What happened in 1804? 
What was the result? 5. What was one of the consequences of 
the war of 1866? 



SWEDEN, DENMARK AND NORWAY. 



CHAPTER LXI. 

1. In the latter part of the fourteenth century, 
Sweden, Denmark and Norway were united into 
one kingdom. During the reign of Christian II, 
king of Denmark, a revolution took place, and 
the Swedes, forming an independent government, 
elected Gustave Vasa their king. 

2. Sweden, although a small country, played 
a conspicuous part in the wars which were so 
often waged between the powers of Europe. 
Gustavus Adolphus, who occupied the Swedish 
throne in 1611, was one of the greatest generals 
of his times. He waged successful war against 
Denmark, Russia and Poland. 

3. Charles XII, who ascended the throne in 
1697, at the age of fifteen years, also sustained a 
war against those three powers, and signally de- 
feated their forces. In the celebrated battle of 
Varna, he defeated a Russian army of 80,000 
men, and took 30,000 prisoners. His own army 

Questions.— 1. When did Sweden separate from Norway and 
Denmark? What warlike prince occupied the throne in 1611? 
3. Tell about Charles XII. 

332 



Sweden, Denmark and Norway. 333 

only numbered eight thousand men. He reduced 
Courland and Litihuania, entered Poland, and 
took Warsaw and Cracow ; but having invaded 
iRussia in midwinter, he suffered a disastrous de- 
feat at Pultawa, The Russians were com- 
imanded by Peter the Great. 
I 4. Charles fled into Turkey, where he sus- 
.tained a batde against twenty thousand Turks, 
for having refused to leave the Turkish territory. 
Overcome by numbers, he had to succumb, and 
1 finally returned to Sweden, where he imme- 
[diately set to prepare himself for the conquest of 
'Norway. He invaded that country, and met his 
j death from a cannon ball at the siege of Fred- 
erickshalle. 

5. In the beginning of the present century, 
Norway was taken from Denmark and annexed 
to Sweden. The throne of Sweden having be- 
come vacant in 1818, by the death of Charles 
XHI, who had no children, the crown was given 
to Beniadotte, one of Napoleon's generals, who 
had been adopted by the king, and declared 
Crown Prince, in 1809. Bernadotte had a 
peaceful reign, and his son Oscar now occupies 
the throne of Sweden. 

6. The history of Denmark, as we have seen, 
is blended with that of Sweden. The govern- 



f' Qdestions.— 4. Where did he go, after his defeat? 5. When was 
Norway annexed to Sweden ? What took place? 6. Tell us about 
Denmark? 



334 Sweden, Denmark and Norway. 

ment was originally elective, but in the year 
1660, it was changed by the voice of the people 
into a hereditary and absokUe monarchy. 

7. The wars in which Denmark engaged were 
principally against Sweden, but the Danes have 
suffered at the hands of stronger powers. In 
180b', Copenhagen, the Danish capital, was bom- 
barded by a British fleet, under the pretence that 
Denmark intended to join France. The Danish 
fleet, consistirig of eighteen ships of the line and 
sixteen frigates, met with complete destruction 
in that unjustifiable attack. 

8. In the history of Prussia, we have seen how 
this power, aided by Austria, despoiled Denmark 
of part of her territory. This iniquity was per- 
mitted by Europe, and the heroic Danes had to 
submit to the law of might, ahhough it was gen- 
erally conceded that they were in the right. 



Questions.— 7. From what Powers did Denmark suffer ? 8. What 
have we seen in the history of Prussia ? To what were the heroic 
Danes compelled to submit? 



NETHERLANDS AND HOLLAND. 



CHAPTER LXn. 

1. The tenilories comprising the Netherlands 
and Holland were united to Germany subsequent 
to the reign of Charlemagne. They regained 
'their independence in the tenth century, were 
[subjected to Burgundy in 1443, and, subse- 
quently, again transferred to Austria. 

2. Resigned to Philip II, of Spain, by the 
emperor Charles V, in 1555, they revolted and 
gained their independence. During the wars of 
Hie French Republic and Empire, the Nether- 
lands were overrun, and became temporarily 
united to France ; but after the fall of Napoleon, 
they were erected into a kingdom. 



1 Questions.— 1. When were these territories united to Germany ? 
J What subsequent changes took place? 2. To who were they 
-esigned in 1555 ? What happened during the French war ? 



335 



678 ^ 



w^ 



* -v 






:. .^ 



A' 



^, ov 



^^ 



} 



■^oo^' 



--^f 



'-p 



-f- 






-...-■.V ...,,% *"^">\ 



\ 



y/ 












A 






oo 



\ 



m 















^' 



v^^' ^r. 



t,. ' 









,d^ 



• ^^ 



... '^^_ 



^ o>- 



>/%i.>^ N , ■9>' 








--■ -^ 




^ 

%' 




•^o 


o'^ 








.^■^ 


■%. • 








s 







o. 



/s „ V 1 



..^> ^^K 



^' 



0^ 



V' -'^ s 



Deacidified using the Bookkeeper proc^ 
Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: HAY 2002 



:> .0 



PreservatiofiTechnologii 

A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVAT 

111 Thomson Park Drive 
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 
(724) 779-2111 



<\ 



A' 



:V 



P-. 



>> 






.#^^ 






^o. 







/Z^^Z, ^ ';i^ 






x^^^. 



o>' '^^^ 



#^ .x^ '^. -.M^ 









J- V- - ■■ 






x^^^. 






'. ^ O S 






:> .< 



/• c- 



\' 



"•^^> <c^- 



.'■^^^!^^, 






'V 












<^. A^ 









■1 "-P 



•~^' 






av 



v^' 

■^ 



'"c. 



^0' 




^•■'-:..:-;SH--/:»', 

■ , ' '..-.' ■ ■ ) I k • I I ' • I > ' y ' . 






?i: 









